A hands-on, operational HR Business Partner role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, supporting a large, site-based workforce through change and growth. This is a highly visible, influential role suited to someone who enjoys being on the ground, working closely with operational leaders and managing the realities of a unionised, blue-collar setting.
Client Details
Our client is a well-established manufacturing organisation based in Huddersfield, currently experiencing a period of transformation and growth. With a strong operational footprint and a long-standing workforce, the business is focused on improving engagement, capability and performance while modernising its people practices. This is an excellent time to join and play a key role in shaping the HR function at site level.
Description
Reporting into the HR Manager, you will partner with site leadership to deliver a consistent, pragmatic and commercially focused HR service. You’ll support managers across the full employee lifecycle, balancing day-to-day employee relations with broader people initiatives.
Once embedded, the role will be roughly split 50% employee relations and 50% broader HR activity, including workforce planning, development initiatives and change programmes.


Key responsibilities*Partner with operational managers to deliver people strategies aligned to business objectives
*Lead and manage complex employee relations cases from investigation through to outcome and appeal
*Coach and support line managers on performance, absence, conduct and capability issues
*Support organisational change activity including restructures, shift patterns and contract changes
*Drive engagement, development and retention initiatives across a diverse and ageing workforce
*Oversee and improve onboarding, training and development processes
*Embed and maintain effective performance management practices
*Contribute to HR reporting, analysing trends in absence, turnover and performance
*Support payroll processes and ensure accuracy and compliance across HR systems
*Build strong relationships with employees, managers and trade union representatives where applicable
*Deputise for the HR Manager as required


Profile
The ideal candidate*Proven experience in a generalist HR role within a manufacturing, operational or site-based environment
*Strong working knowledge of UK employment law with confidence handling complex ER cases
*Experience working in a unionised environment (highly advantageous)
*CIPD Level 5 qualified (or working towards)
*Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, hands-on setting with evolving systems and processes
*Strong Excel and HR data analysis capability
*Proactive, resilient and able to operate with a high level of autonomy
*Confident communicator with the credibility to influence at all levels


Job Offer
*Competitive salary ranging from £50,000 to £55,000 per annum.
*33 days annual leave (including bank holidays, with flexibility to swap days)
*Flexi-time scheme - up to an additional 12 days off per year
*Enhanced pension - up to 8% employer contribution
*On-site gym
*Flexible working (4 days on-site, 1 day WFH)
If you are ready to take the next step in your HR career, apply today to join this well-regarded organisation!