Organisational Development jobs in United Kingdom

My client, an innovative and rapidly scaling AI company based near Cambridge, is looking for their first dedicated HR Manager. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of the entire people function within a growing team of around 30, shaping culture, processes, and best practice from the ground up.

In this hands‑on and influential role, you will manage the full employee lifecycle, introduce essential HR frameworks, and support leadership as the business continues its exciting growth journey.

• Manage the full employee lifecycle: onboarding, probation, performance reviews, and offboarding
• Act as the main HR contact for managers and employees
• Develop and maintain HR policies, procedures, and the employee handbook (UK employment law compliance)
• Provide guidance on employee relations and support managers with best practice
• Oversee payroll input and employee benefits with finance and external providers
• Maintain accurate HR systems, data, and documentation
• Coordinate learning and development initiatives to support capability building
• Drive employee engagement activities and foster an inclusive, supportive culture
• Support leadership with workforce planning and organisational development
• Ensure compliance with H&S and other statutory requirements
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across the business

• Proven HR generalist experience, ideally in a start‑up, scale‑up, or fast‑paced SME
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices
• Comfortable operating as a standalone HR function, balancing strategic and hands‑on responsibilities
• Confident communicator who can build trust at all levels
• Proactive, adaptable, and able to work independently
• CIPD Level 5+ desirable, not essential

• Team Size: ~30 and growing
• Environment: Opportunity to build and shape a full HR function within a scaling defence AI organisation