Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and hands-on HR Manager to provide maternity cover in a fast-paced financial services environment. This role is responsible for delivering a full spectrum of HR services, leading a small team, and partnering with business leaders to support organisational goals.
The successful candidate will balance operational excellence with strategic input, ensuring HR practices are efficient, compliant, and aligned with business needs.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
Lead, coach, and develop a team of 3 (2 HR Officers and 1 Talent Manager)
Allocate workload, set objectives, and monitor performance
Foster a high-performance, collaborative team culture
HR Operations
Oversee day-to-day HR operations, ensuring smooth delivery of HR services
Manage employee lifecycle processes (onboarding, performance, promotions, exits)
Ensure HR systems and records are accurate and up to date
Employee Relations
Act as escalation point for complex employee relations issues
Provide expert advice on disciplinary, grievance, and performance matters
Ensure consistent and fair application of policies
Talent & Recruitment
Partner with the Talent Manager to oversee recruitment strategy and delivery
Support workforce planning and hiring in a competitive financial services market
Ensure strong candidate experience and employer branding
Stakeholder Management
Partner with senior managers to understand business needs and provide HR solutions
Influence and coach leaders on people-related matters
Act as a trusted advisor across the business
HR Strategy & Projects
Support delivery of HR initiatives aligned to business objectives
Lead or contribute to HR projects (e.g., policy updates, engagement initiatives)
Drive continuous improvement in HR processes
Compliance & Risk
Ensure compliance with employment law and financial services regulations
Maintain and update HR policies and procedures
Support audits and regulatory requirements where needed
Key Skills & Experience
Proven experience in an HR Manager or Senior HR Business Partner role
Experience managing or mentoring HR team members
Strong employee relations expertise
Background in financial services or similarly regulated, fast-paced environments preferred
Solid understanding of UK employment law
Ability to manage competing priorities under pressure
Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
Qualifications
Personal Attributes
Proactive and solutions-focused
Resilient and adaptable in a fast-moving environment
Strong attention to detail with a commercial mindset
Confident communicator with credibility at all levels
Success Measures
Effective management and development of HR team
High-quality, timely HR support to the business
Positive stakeholder feedback
Smooth handling of employee relations cases
Delivery of key HR projects within timeframe
