Interim HR Manager

Ashley Kate HR; Southend-on-Sea; On-site; GBP 34,000; Full time

Job summary

An experienced HR Manager is needed for a maternity cover role, starting in October. This varied position involves driving HR operations and supporting employee relations in a consumer goods business. With a focus on compliance and staff engagement, the role offers autonomy and the chance to impact the organization positively.

Qualifications

• Proven HR generalist at Manager or Senior Advisor level.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law.
• Comfortable in a standalone role and fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for HR-related queries.
• Manage the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment and onboarding.
• Oversee health and safety matters and line manage the receptionist.

Skills

HR generalist experience

UK employment law knowledge

Relationship building

Health and safety oversight

Education

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience

Job description

Interim HR Manager

Location: Near Southend Airport

Contract: 4 months initially (October start), with potential to extend for a further 5 months

Salary: £34,000 per annum

Working pattern: On-site 5 days per week (with ad-hoc home working flexibility)

Are you an experienced HR generalist looking for your next challenge? We're seeking a confident and hands-on Interim HR Manager to join a fast-paced consumer goods business, not far from Southend Airport. This is a maternity cover role, initially for four months from October, with the strong likelihood of extending for a further five months.

In this varied standalone position, you'll play a key role in driving day-to-day HR operations while supporting the wider business with all people-related matters. You'll also be responsible for line managing the receptionist and overseeing health and safety on site.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the first point of contact for all HR-related queries, providing sound advice and guidance to managers and employees
• Manage the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, probation reviews, performance management, and leaver processes
• Support employee relations matters such as absence management, investigations, disciplinary and grievance processes
• Maintain and update HR systems and employee records, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and internal policies
• Coordinate training, development, and engagement initiatives across the business
• Produce and analyse HR data and reports to inform decision-making
• Lead on all health and safety matters, including risk assessments and ensuring a safe working environment
• Line manage the receptionist, providing direction and support

What We're Looking For:

• Proven HR generalist experience at HR Manager or Senior Advisor level
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices
• Comfortable working in a standalone role in a busy, fast-moving environment
• Able to build relationships at all levels and influence with credibility and confidence
• Experience overseeing health and safety is desirable, though not essential
• CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent experience) preferred

This is a great opportunity to step into a broad HR role with real autonomy and variety. You'll be joining a collaborative and committed team, with the chance to make a genuine impact.

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

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