People Operations Partner

Hughes Recruits; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in HR based in Manchester is seeking a People Operations Partner. The ideal candidate will have solid HR experience, especially in employee relations, and will work closely with line managers to address people challenges. Responsibilities include leading on employee relations matters, providing coaching to managers, and supporting various HR initiatives. Candidates should have a strong understanding of UK employment law and a collaborative approach. Competitive salary of £40-45K plus excellent benefits is offered.

Benefits

Excellent Benefits

Qualifications

• Solid HR experience, especially in employee relations.
• Understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices.
• Calm and confident approach to sensitive situations.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted partner to line managers.
• Lead on employee relations matters.
• Support change management and development projects.
• Help improve HR policies and processes.

Skills

Experience in generalist HR

Strong exposure to employee relations

Excellent interpersonal skills

Collaborative and adaptable

Solutions-focused mindset

Education

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience

Job description

People Operations Partner

Reports To: HR Director

Location: Manchester (Hardman Street M3 3EB)

Salary: £40 - £45K + Excellent Benefits

This role is ideal for someone with solid HR experience — especially in employee relations — who’s now ready to step into a more strategic, impactful position. You’ll be a trusted partner to managers, supporting them with people challenges while contributing to wider HR projects and initiatives.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Act as a trusted partner to line managers across the business
• Lead and support on a range of employee relations matters — including disciplinaries, grievances, absence, and performance management
• Provide coaching and guidance to managers to build confidence and capability
• Collaborate with the wider team on initiatives across engagement, performance and culture
• Support change management and organisation development projects
• Help develop and continuously improve HR policies, processes, and frameworks
• Contribute to shaping our people strategy — bringing ideas, feedback, and a learning mindset

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in a generalist HR, HR Advisor, or similar role, with strong exposure to employee relations
• Solid understanding of UK employment law and HR best practice
• A calm, confident approach to sensitive or complex situations
• Someone who’s naturally collaborative, adaptable, and solutions-focused
• A desire to grow — into broader HR partnering and people strategy
• CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience (we’re happy to support ongoing development)
• Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills