HR Manager

Adria Solutions Ltd.; Saffron Walden; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A high-growth AI company near Cambridge is seeking an HR Manager to shape and own the company's people function. In this pivotal role, you will manage the full employee lifecycle, develop HR policies, and support leadership during a period of exciting growth. Ideal candidates should possess proven HR experience and a strong understanding of UK employment law. This position offers the chance to build a comprehensive HR function within a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• Proven HR generalist experience, ideally in a start‑up, scale‑up, or fast‑paced SME.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices.
• Comfortable operating as a standalone HR function, balancing strategic and hands‑on responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full employee lifecycle: onboarding, performance reviews, and offboarding.
• Develop and maintain HR policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance on employee relations and support managers.

Skills

HR generalist experience

Knowledge of UK employment law

Effective communication skills

Adaptability

Proactiveness

Education

CIPD Level 5+

Job description

HR Manager – High-Growth AI Company – Near Cambridge

My client, an innovative and rapidly scaling AI company based near Cambridge, is looking for their first dedicated HR Manager. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of the entire people function within a growing team of around 30, shaping culture, processes, and best practice from the ground up.

In this hands‑on and influential role, you will manage the full employee lifecycle, introduce essential HR frameworks, and support leadership as the business continues its exciting growth journey.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full employee lifecycle: onboarding, probation, performance reviews, and offboarding
• Act as the main HR contact for managers and employees
• Develop and maintain HR policies, procedures, and the employee handbook (UK employment law compliance)
• Provide guidance on employee relations and support managers with best practice
• Oversee payroll input and employee benefits with finance and external providers
• Maintain accurate HR systems, data, and documentation
• Coordinate learning and development initiatives to support capability building
• Drive employee engagement activities and foster an inclusive, supportive culture
• Support leadership with workforce planning and organisational development
• Ensure compliance with H&S and other statutory requirements
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across the business

Requirements

• Proven HR generalist experience, ideally in a start‑up, scale‑up, or fast‑paced SME
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices
• Comfortable operating as a standalone HR function, balancing strategic and hands‑on responsibilities
• Confident communicator who can build trust at all levels
• Proactive, adaptable, and able to work independently
• CIPD Level 5+ desirable, not essential

Role Details

• Team Size: ~30 and growing
• Environment: Opportunity to build and shape a full HR function within a scaling defence AI organisation

Interested? Please Click Apply Now!