Full job descriptionSenior People & Culture Business Partner (Maternity Cover – 12 Months)

Location: Mundells, Welwyn Garden City
Salary: Up to £51,848 per annum (DOE)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Fixed-Term Contract (12 Months)
HCL, a leading school catering provider, is looking for an experienced Senior People & Culture Business Partner to join our People & Culture team on a 12-month maternity cover contract.
Reporting to the Head of People & Culture, you will lead the People & Culture Business Partner team, providing expert HR support and strategic advice across the organisation. Working closely with senior leaders and stakeholders, you will drive people initiatives that support business growth, employee engagement, retention and performance.
This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded HR professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys managing complex employee relations matters, organisational change and cultural development.
Key Responsibilities*Lead and develop the People & Culture Business Partner team.
*Provide strategic HR guidance to managers and senior leaders.
*Manage complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, capability and safeguarding matters.
*Lead organisational change projects, restructures and TUPE transfers.
*Support talent management, succession planning and performance initiatives.
*Review and develop people policies, ensuring legal compliance and best practice.
*Analyse HR data and provide insights to support business decision-making.
*Champion a positive, inclusive and purpose-led culture across the organisation.
About You*CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent).
*Strong experience managing complex employee relations cases.
*Proven experience supporting organisational change and TUPE processes.
*Excellent knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
*Strong stakeholder management, coaching and influencing skills.
*Confident using HR data and analytics to drive improvement.
*Able to build credibility quickly and work effectively with senior leaders.
Why Join HCL?*Competitive salary and pension scheme.
*Life Assurance and Employee Assistance Programme.
*Professional development and career growth opportunities.
*A values-driven organisation committed to supporting schools and local communities.
*Opportunity to make a real impact on organisational culture and employee experience.
Travel across Hertfordshire and surrounding counties will be required.
Apply today and help shape the future of People & Culture at HCL.