Interim Senior HR Manager

Waddington Brown Ltd; Martlesham, Wymondham; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an Interim Senior HR Manager to lead a team across Norfolk & Suffolk. This role focuses on operational excellence and developing effective people strategies. Ideal candidates will have extensive HR experience, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality HR services in a complex public service environment.

Benefits

24 days holiday plus public holidays

Hybrid working option

Local government pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Paid training and mentoring opportunities

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of employee relations and employment legislation.
• Track record of leading HR teams in public service.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice on complex ER issues.
• Drive improvements in HR delivery processes.
• Lead and develop the HR Delivery Team.

Skills

Expert HR advisory

Leadership and coaching

Interpersonal skills

Complex ER casework management

Education

CIPD L7 qualification or significant HR experience

Job description

Overview

Waddington Brown are proud to be working in partnership with Norfolk & Suffolk Police to appoint an Interim Senior HR Manager for a period of 6-12 months — a newly created temporary position within the function and is a key role leading a team of HR Managers across Norfolk & Suffolk, working closely with the Director of People and alongside senior management.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a senior HR leader to shape the people agenda, drive operational excellence, and make a genuine difference in a complex, values-driven public service environment.

As a Senior HR Manager you will have an influencing role within the HR Delivery team ensuring operational efficiencies of the team. You will be working in partnership with senior Managers throughout the organisation to develop effective people strategies ensuring they support organisational objectives.

What you’ll be doing

• Provide expert advice and support on all areas of complex ER casework.
• Drive continuous improvement of HR delivery processes and systems, ensuring efficiency and service excellence.
• Lead, coach and develop the HR Delivery Team.
• Promote best practice within the HR function and ensure compliance with employment legislation.
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders to support organisational transformation and cultural development.

About you

• Ideally CIPD L7 qualified (or significant HR experience in lieu).
• Excellent ER knowledge having managed many complex ER issues.
• Experience of leading a team to deliver a comprehensive HR service.
• A proven HR leader with the ability to think strategically while maintaining a hands-on approach to delivery.
• Experience of working with Unions is desirable.
• Strong interpersonal skills including relationship building, motivating others and influencing.
• A commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion in all aspects of HR practice.
• Flexibility to travel within Norfolk & Suffolk when required.

Why work for Norfolk and Suffolk Police?

Working for Norfolk and Suffolk Police means joining an organisation that’s progressive, community-focused, and genuinely values its people. As part of the Joint People Directorate, you’ll play a part in shaping the wellbeing, engagement, and success of a diverse workforce serving millions of residents.

Benefits include

• 24 days holiday per year in addition to public holidays
• Hybrid working – 1 day in HQ at Wymondham / Martlesham, 2 days in the area and 2 days from home
• Option of joining the local government pension scheme
• Option of joining the sports & social staff association and UNISON and enjoying the benefits these provide
• Access to the Blue Light Card with 100s of discounts
• Paid-for training is available as is the opportunity to have mentoring, in a workplace where development is encouraged
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) A confidential service, available 365 days a year, 24/7, free of charge which can provide around the clock support and guidance to help you manage work and personal stressors, as well as support you through lifestyle changes
• Support Networks that provide information and opportunities to share experiences as well as offering advice and support to members
• A diverse, equal and inclusive workforce in an organisation that values its people
• A member of the National Police Healthcare Scheme, offering affordable private healthcare to Officers, staff members and their families

Important information for Applicants

Vetting and safeguarding Norfolk and Suffolk constabularies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. All employees and volunteers therefore will be subject to background checks including vetting and references.

Police Barred and Advisory lists Individuals placed on the Police Barred and Advisory lists will not be considered for employment by the police for a minimum of 5 years from the date of listing in the case of gross misconduct, or 3 years from the date of listing in the case of poor performance.

Eligibility Criteria All Applicants must reside in the UK and have continuous residency for the past five years (The only exceptions are being stationed abroad through the Armed Forces or having taken extended holiday / travelled for a period of less than 12 months, where your UK residency has been maintained)

If this role is of interest and you are available at short notice or considering an interim opportunity starting soon, please reach out to Eithne Sanders at Waddington Brown for an informal conversation.