Our client are a fast-growing retail business with a workforce of approximately 900 employees, and they are looking for a dedicated HR Manager to join the team. This newly created role is an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR professional to make a significant impact by establishing foundational HR policies and procedures while playing a key role in shaping the future of the business. The role will initially focus on building robust HR operations and compliance frameworks, with the opportunity to evolve into a more strategic leadership role as the business grows and matures. Key Responsibilities HR Operations and Compliance • Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and handbooks to ensure compliance with employment law and best practices. • Design and manage processes for recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and offboarding. • Ensure compliance with employment regulations, including right-to-work checks, GDPR, and health and safety obligations. • Manage employee relations cases, providing advice and support to managers on disciplinary, grievance, and other ER issues. • Oversee and improve payroll processes in collaboration with the finance team. Employee Engagement and Development • Develop initiatives to enhance employee engagement, retention, and wellbeing across the workforce. • Implement training and development programs to build capability and support career progression. Strategic HR Development • Partner with senior leadership to identify and address workforce planning needs. • Drive organisational change and improvement initiatives as the company scales. • Provide data-driven insights and analysis to inform business decisions, including reporting on HR metrics such as turnover, absence, and engagement. • Support the Head of Operations in aligning the HR strategy with broader business goals. Leadership and Collaboration • Act as a trusted advisor to managers across the business, providing coaching and guidance on people management issues. • Collaborate with department heads to support business growth and operational efficiency. • Build and lead an HR team as the function grows, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality HR service. Skills and Experience • Proven experience in an HR Manager, HR Business Partner, or similar role within a fast-paced environment (retail or multi-site experience is a plus). • Strong understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices. • Experience creating and implementing HR policies, procedures, and processes from scratch. • Confident handling employee relations cases, with excellent problem-solving skills. • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the business. Ideally candidates will have: • CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent) is essential; CIPD Level 7 is desirable. • A proactive, hands-on approach with a can-do attitude. • Strategic mindset, with the ability to balance operational and strategic priorities. • Passion for creating a positive workplace culture and driving continuous improvement. What We Offer • Competitive salary • 35 hour working week with earlier finish on a Friday • 35 days holiday • A chance to shape the HR function in a growing business • Opportunities for career development as the business evolves • A supportive and collaborative team environment