Office and HR Manager

Le Maitre Ltd; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK manufacturer is looking for an Office & HR Manager in Peterborough to oversee office operations, HR duties, and customer support. This full-time, on-site role involves shipping and logistics management, ensuring efficient daily operations, and providing essential support to senior management. Ideal candidates will have strong organisational skills and experience in HR administration, while also managing external suppliers responsibly. Competitive salary and opportunities for development offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Access to 360 Wellbeing app

28 days paid annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Occasional remote working by arrangement

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Office Manager or HR Administrator role.
• Experience in an SME or manufacturing environment desired.
• Confidence handling HR administration and payroll.

Responsibilities

• Oversee office operations and HR administration.
• Coordinate shipping and logistics.
• Manage customer support and sales inquiries.

Skills

Organisational skills

Time-management skills

Excellent communication skills

HR administration

Problem-solving skills

IT literacy

Job description

Office & HR Manager

Location: Peterborough

Position: Full-time, on-site

Reports to: Managing Director

Salary: 35-38k, dependent on experience

Company Overview

Le Maitre is a leading UK manufacturer of pyrotechnics and special effects, supplying the entertainment, events, and emergency services industries worldwide. With over 45 years of industry experience, we are known for our innovation, technical expertise, and commitment to quality and safety.

Operating from our manufacturing site in Peterborough, we offer a dynamic and fast-paced working environment where employees play an active role in the success of the business.

Job Overview

Le Maitre is seeking a highly organised and proactive Office & HR Manager to play a central role in the smooth running of our business. This is a varied, hands‑on position responsible for overseeing office operations, HR administration, customer service support, shipping coordination, and IT and supplier management.

Based full-time at our Peterborough site, this role is critical to ensuring the day-to-day efficiency of the office while supporting teams across sales, operations, production, and senior management.

Key Responsibilities

Shipping & Logistics

• Ensure all commercial invoices and export documentation are completed accurately prior to shipment
• Coordinate and manage UK and international shipments, ensuring timely dispatch and delivery
• Liaise with couriers to track shipments and resolve delays or issues
• Maintain accurate shipment records for audit, tracking, and reference
• Review shipping processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs, including negotiating courier rates
• Work closely with the sales team to ensure customer shipment requirements are met

Human Resources (HR)

• Administer staff holiday requests using Breathe HR
• Record and monitor staff sickness and absences, including return-to-work processes
• Respond to general HR queries and escalate issues where appropriate
• Prepare and issue employee contracts and maintain personnel records
• Support onboarding of new employees
• Administer payroll
• Liaise with operations and factory management and recruitment agencies to ensure adequate staffing levels
• Support line managers and the Managing Director with HR matters including salaries, disciplinary processes, and training requirements
• Maintain fire registers and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements

Customer Service & Sales Support

• Manage the company info mailbox and respond promptly to customer enquiries
• Delegate enquiries appropriately to ensure efficient handling and resolution
• Track customer issues and follow up to ensure satisfactory outcomes
• Support the sales team with customer queries and order processing via Winnaccs and Monday.com
• Maintain records of recurring customer feedback to help improve processes and service delivery
• Ensure customer communications are professional, consistent, and aligned with company standards

General Office Management

• Oversee day-to-day office operations, administration, and organisation
• Manage procurement and supplier relationships for office services and supplies (IT, phone systems, internet, software, stationery, etc.)
• Act as the main point of contact for IT and software providers
• Liaise with managers to ensure administrative and operational systems support business needs
• Work with the Operations Director and Compliance Manager to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant site
• Ensure adequate office cover during staff holidays or absences
• Manage visitor sign-in procedures and site security compliance
• Act as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders
• Support senior management with ad hoc projects, reports, and operational improvements

Who We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in an Office Manager, HR Administrator, or similar multi-functional role
• Experience working in an SME or operational/manufacturing environment is desired
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Confidence handling HR administration and payroll
• Comfortable managing shipping, logistics, and supplier relationships
• Good IT literacy and confidence working with office systems and software
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information
• Proactive, reliable, and able to work independently
• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Access to the 360 Wellbeing app, including mental health support, 24/7 GP access, fitness resources, and legal advice
• Work‑life balance: Monday–Thursday 09:00–17:00, Friday 09:00–16:00 (08:00–15:00)
• 28 days paid annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays)- office closure over Christmas and New Year
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• Participation in company events and activities
• Occasional remote working by arrangement, where appropriate

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to:

[e-mail]