HR Manager

Great Central Railway; Leicester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Great Central Railway is seeking a capable HR Manager to oversee all people-related matters within the organization. This standalone role requires strategic HR planning and hands-on support, fostering an inclusive work environment for both paid staff and volunteers. Ideal candidates will have experience in HR roles within charity or heritage contexts and possess strong communication skills to interact effectively across various levels of the organization.

Qualifications

• Experience in a broad HR role, ideally within a charity or heritage-based organization.
• Knowledge of HR policies aligned with UK employment law.
• Ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead HR function, supporting employees and volunteers.
• Develop and maintain HR policies in line with UK employment law.
• Monitor HR metrics and prepare reports for senior management.

Skills

Communication

Empathy

Understanding of UK employment law

Education

CIPD qualified (Level 5 or above) or equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

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The Great Central Railway is a renowned heritage railway and visitor attraction with a proud history, passionate workforce, and strong community ties. We are looking for a capable, self-sufficient HR Manager to take the lead on all people-related matters across our organisation, which includes both paid staff and a large, dedicated volunteer workforce.

This is a standalone role, ideal for someone who thrives in a varied environment and enjoys combining strategic HR planning with hands-on support. While you will not have direct reports, you will work closely with department heads, supervisors and volunteers to foster a positive, compliant, and inclusive working culture.

Key tasks and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the full HR function, supporting both employees and volunteers.
• Develop and maintain HR policies and procedures in line with UK employment law and the specific needs of a heritage and charitable organisation.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and induction processes for staff and volunteers, working closely with relevant departments.
• Provide guidance on employee and volunteer relations, performance management, grievance handling, and conflict resolution.
• Maintain accurate personnel records and ensure GDPR compliance.
• Advise leadership on workforce planning, succession, and organisational development.
• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive working environment across a multi-generational and diverse team.
• Monitor HR metrics (e.g., absence, turnover) and prepare reports for senior management.
• Contribute to and promote staff and volunteer engagement initiatives, wellbeing programs, and recognition schemes.

Person Specification:

• Essential (minimum) personal qualities, knowledge or experience Desirable personal qualities, knowledge or experience
• Previous experience in a broad HR role, ideally within a charity, volunteer-led, public-facing, or heritage-based organisation.
• CIPD qualified (Level 5 or above) or equivalent experience.
• Strong understanding of UK employment law, HR best practices, and safeguarding considerations.
• A good working knowledge of HR systems and Microsoft Office tools.
• Empathetic, approachable, and able to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, from operational staff to volunteers and board members.
• An interest in heritage, railways, or community engagement is a strong advantage.
• Confident working autonomously, managing varied responsibilities in a dynamic environment.

Manages: This is a stand-alone position

Hours of work: 37½ hours per week, including some weekends and evenings

If this position is of interest

• All applications for this role are to be forwarded to David Ellard - Head of People Engagement email: [e-mail]

• We will require a current CV and a letter explaining why you feel you would excel in this position.

• Applications close July 13th, 2025

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

• Industries

  Rail Transportation

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