HR Manager

HR Manager (Maternity Cover)

• Contract Type: 4-month rolling contract (maternity cover)
• Location: Southend-on-Sea
• Reports to: Business Unit Director

On behalf of my Client, I am seeking an experienced and adaptable HR Manager to join their team on a maternity cover basis. This role involves supporting the HR function across three of their businesses in Europe, covering approximately 70-80 employees located in Southend and London.

The HR Manager will be responsible for managing all aspects of the employee lifecycle, ensuring legal compliance, maintaining a positive work culture, and supporting our managers and teams.

Job Description:

• Manage recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding processes.
• Handle employee relations matters including disciplinaries and welfare support.
• Maintain and update HR policies and employment documentation.
• Lead the annual appraisal process and support training coordination.
• Ensure HR records are accurate, up to date, and GDPR-compliant.
• Collaborate with the Finance team to ensure payroll alignment.
• Manage health & safety procedures with third-party support.
• Provide first-line HR advice to staff and coaching to managers.
• Oversee employee engagement initiatives and internal communications.
• Perform site management duties, including supervision of the Southend receptionist and coordination of facilities and contractor services.
• The role is based in their Southend office, with occasional travel to London as required.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Solid understanding of employment law and HR best practices.
• Ability to manage sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism.
• Highly organised with the ability to multitask and prioritise effectively.
• Confident working independently.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (especially Word and Excel).
• Experience with Apple Mac systems (helpful but not essential).
• Familiarity with health & safety and risk assessments.
• At least 2 years in a generalist HR role (essential).
• Previous experience in health & safety responsibilities (preferred).

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and supportive environment.
• Exposure to diverse HR functions across multiple locations.
• Competitive remuneration package.
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Birthday benefit – late start or early finish
• Private healthcare (Vitality)
• Subsidised gym membership
• Long service awards
• Quarterly star employee awards
• Flu vaccination
• Pension plan + salary exchange option
• Regular team social events
• Supportive and collaborative team culture