Talent & Engagement Specialist

GKN; Luton; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Luton is seeking a Talent & Engagement Specialist to enhance internal talent strategies and engagement. This hybrid role emphasizes collaboration across multiple sites and focuses on programs that support employee development and a positive workplace culture. The ideal candidate will bring experience in talent development and HR, and will thrive in nurturing a strong internal culture.

Benefits

Competitive salary dependent on experience

Industry Leading Pension Scheme

Up to 15% bonus

Life Assurance 8× salary

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Income protection

Shopping discounts

Cycle‑to‑Work Scheme

Virtual GP Clinic

Enhanced family‑friendly leave

Qualifications

• Proven experience in talent development, employee engagement or HR roles.
• Creative thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Support talent development programs for employee career growth.
• Conduct needs assessments for training and development opportunities.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions to promote learning.
• Analyse engagement survey results and implement action plans.
• Support the early careers strategy from identification of needs.

Skills

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Knowledge of adult learning principles

Proficiency in HR software

Understanding of performance management best practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources

Tools

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Job description

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel : going further faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry were inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. Were proud to play a part in protecting the worlds democracies. And were committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the worlds aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of 3.35 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary

We're looking for a Talent & Engagement Specialist to join our Defence business line at GKN Aerospace. You’ll play a key role in shaping and delivering our internal talent and engagement strategy. Reporting to the HR Director (based in the U.S.) you’ll collaborate closely with the Central Talent Team, HR Site Leaders and Managers to support the development, retention and engagement of our people.

This is not a recruitment role – this is a strategic, internally focused role driving initiatives that enhance employee experience, support career development and align talent strategies with business goals across our four Defence business lines sites in the UK, Netherlands and U.S.

If you’re passionate about building a strong internal culture and enabling talent to thrive this could be the perfect opportunity.

This is a hybrid role offering the flexibility to work from home. Ideally you will be based within a suitable travel distance to our Luton manufacturing facility as occasional on‑site attendance (approximately once a month) will be required to support work and project plans. Additionally there is a requirement to travel to our East Cowes Isle of Wight facility as needed for similar business purposes (which may include overnight stays). Alternatively you may be based near East Cowes and travel to Luton as required. You’ll support across the remaining Defence Business Line sites (Netherlands and U.S.) by virtual means.

Job Responsibilities

• Help support talent development programs aimed at enhancing employee skills and career growth.
• Conduct needs assessments where appropriate to identify training and development opportunities across the business line.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions to promote continuous learning and development, with a focus on leadership engagement.
• Support engagement strategies that foster a positive organisational culture.
• Analyse engagement survey results and work with leadership to implement action plans to address areas of opportunity.
• Be an active member of the Aerospace Talent & Engagement community to support and ensure effective roll‑out of tools and resources.
• Effectively communicate and mentor employees on company culture and principles.
• Champion the Gallup Strengths Finder tool and support our leaders to leverage strengths of their teams and individuals.
• Collaborate with managers to establish clear performance objectives and development plans for employees.
• Support the performance review process by providing guidance and resources to managers and employees.
• Assist in the Talent Review process with items such as identification of high‑potential employees and creation of tailored development plans for them.
• Manage and deliver reports and data on talent and engagement when required.
• Support the early careers strategy from identification of needs, candidate selection and managing the process for the business line.
• Communicate development opportunities and resources effectively to all employees.
• Any other reasonable duties.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organisational Development or a related field.
• Proven experience in talent development, employee engagement or HR roles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
• Knowledge of adult learning principles and training methodologies.
• Proficiency in HR software, Learning Management Systems (LMS) and data analysis tools.
• Understanding of performance management best practices and employee engagement strategies.

Personal Attributes

• Passionate about employee development and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Creative thinker with a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Empathetic and approachable with a focus on supporting employee growth and well‑being.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• Industry Leading Pension Scheme – we match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis.
• The opportunity to earn up to 15% bonus.
• Life Assurance 8× salary.
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
• Income protection.
• Shopping discounts.
• Cycle‑to‑Work Scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family.
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave.
• A collaborative dynamic working environment.

Key Skills

• Business Development
• Employee Orientation
• Public Health
• Account Management
• VersionOne
• Conflict Management
• Project Management
• Relationship Management
• Team Management
• Customer Relationship Management
• Human Resources
• Public Speaking

Employment Details

• Employment Type: Full Time
• Experience: Years
• Vacancy: 1

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