Job Description
About Us
Specialist Passenger Solutions (SPS) is a dedicated division of First Bus, providing tailored transport solutions that ensure the perfect journey. Established in 2016, SPS is the sole transport provider for the EDF Nuclear Project at Hinkley Point C in Bridgwater—the largest construction project in Europe. Every day, we move thousands of workers and visitors safely and efficiently to and from the site.
As part of First Bus, we combine industry-leading expertise with cutting-edge technology to enhance the customer experience. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to delivering excellence through investment in our services, technology, and highly trained drivers.
Position Summary
Working within the People team, the People Advisor contributes to a balanced and productive workplace, reinforcing commitment to the DRIVE values. Responsible for fostering a positive workplace culture by managing and resolving employee relations issues, providing guidance on policies, promoting engagement and wellbeing initiatives and ensuring consistent application of company procedures. This role serves as a trusted advisor to both employees and managers, promoting fair treatment and a respectful environment through proactive conflict resolution, coaching, and compliance support.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
* Facilitate training sessions and workshops for managers on HR policies, best practices, and conflict resolution techniques and ensuring these are regularly refreshed
* Providing expert guidance and support to both Managers and Supervisors on employee relation cases such as performance management, investigations, disciplinary actions, and grievance processes.
* Ensure consistent application of policies, agreements and procedures across the organisation and project.
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with employees and managers to understand and address workplace issues proactively.
* Manage and track absence cases, working to reduce costs and improve attendance rates.
* Continue the creation, revision, and distribution of HR documentation, ensuring alignment with company branding and accuracy to relevant legislation.
* Support the implementation of the organisation's People Strategy in partnership with the People team.
* Assist in DRIVE academy initiatives, including succession planning and development programmes.
* Regularly review and update HR policies and the employee handbook to ensure compliance and relevance.
* Ensure GDPR compliance in HR processes whilst completing regular data protection training and supporting the Data Compliance Officer (DCO).
* Identify potential employee relations risks and escalate issues to the Head of People as needed.
* Take an active role in employee engagement initiatives, including managing feedback from employee surveys and supporting action plans.
* Provide support during disciplinary and grievance hearings, including advising managers and taking detailed notes.
* Responsible for the Occupational Health referral process and coordinating with health professionals when necessary.
* Plan and conduct employee inductions, ensuring a positive onboarding experience.
* Mentor and support colleagues through the DRIVE Academy, offering guidance to build their skills in employee relations.
* Champion employee feedback initiatives such as the Colleague Surveys and Colleague Connect, encouraging open communication and fostering a positive workplace environment.
Skills & Experience
Essential:
* Extensive generalist experience.
* Strong understanding of IT, including MS Office packages.
* Ability to work in a very fast-paced environment.
* Flexibility regarding working hours in a 24/7 business.
* Experience dealing with Trade Unions and Industrial Relations.
* Ability to establish professional credibility across the business quickly through behaviours and actions.
Desirable:
* MHFA qualification or equivalent experience
Qualifications & Knowledge
Essential:
* Valid Driving Licence.
* CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience.
Desirable:
* Knowledge of the transport sector.
Rewards & Benefits
* Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
* We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
* Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
* Cycle to work scheme
* 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
* Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
* Flexible working
We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You'll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
Please apply now. We look forward to receiving your application.
Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.
Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.