Recognition Partner

Reward & Recognition Partner needed, £42,184 per annum – Reference: 5299210

Suitable candidates will be based in or close by our operating region which includes Hampshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and London

• Bring experience from a reward-focused or generalist HR role, ideally with a CIPD Level 3 qualification (or equivalent experience). They will be confident working with large data sets, comfortable using Excel to get what you need, and have a sharp eye for detail.
• They will thrive in a fast‑paced, evolving environment and be skilled at managing multiple priorities. Their communication skills will shine—whether supporting frontline colleagues, advising leaders, or working with external partners.
• Curious and proactive, always looking for ways to improve the colleague offer and experience.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively.
• Experienced in job evaluation, benchmarking, and benefits management.
• Passionate about delivering a great service and making a difference.

Support the Reward and Recognition Lead in delivering the organisation’s reward strategy. This includes playing a pivotal role in managing the annual reward cycle, conducting benchmarking, and providing data‑driven insights to support decision‑making across the business and providing day to day support to the business on reward matters.

• Complete job evaluation and salary benchmarking processes, providing feedback and working with leaders on the outcomes
• Manage external salary survey submissions and work with providers on their requirements
• Oversee reward queries and challenges, working with the wider People team as required to explain methodology, processes and outcomes
• Develop and implement reward initiatives, working closely with suppliers and key stakeholders
• Manage the annual benefits selection window and development of the benefits management site
• Provide data analysis across all areas of reward, using insight to inform decision making and scope future areas of development
• Ensure the effective communication of the Offer in respect of reward, ensuring content on internal platforms is current
• Support the production of annual reporting associated with reward such as Gender Pay Gap and Equal Pay reporting
• Work closely with external reward partners to ensure services/products provided are the best they could be for colleagues
• Provide support in all aspects of the annual reward cycle and reward related projects as required

This is a full time role on a permanent basis.

Please apply on our website with your CV, alternatively you can email your CV to  quoting the reference number.

Essential Employment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy. Essential Employment is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

All our roles may be subject to pre‑employment checks including references so please be prepared.