HR Generalist Advisor

Founded in 1937 and headquartered in Gloucester, UK, Permali specialises in advanced composite materials and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) solutions. With 85 years of engineering expertise, we serve numerous critical sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, Rail, Automotive, Marine, Medical, and Textiles. Our state-of-the-art 10,500 sqm manufacturing facility offers capabilities in pressing, moulding, CNC machining, CAD design, inspection, and more. As part of the Diamorph Group, we are renowned for delivering innovative, custom-engineered solutions to meet the stringent standards of global OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers in demanding industries.

This is a full-time site based role based in Irlam, Manchester, with the flexibility of partial remote work (1 day per week where applicable). The HR Generalist will manage day-to-day Human Resources operations, implement and enforce HR policies, ensure compliance with employment laws, and handle employee relations matters within a unionised environment. Responsibilities include providing HR guidance to staff and managers, supporting recruitment efforts, maintaining employee records, preparing reports, and assisting in training and development programs.

The role involves a proactive approach to fostering a positive work environment and addressing employee concerns to align with business objectives.

The role will operate in a standalone capacity with support from HQ in Gloucester. This role requires resilience, sound judgement and the ability to operate independently in a fast paced operational setting.

Advise managers on the application and interpretation of HR policies and procedures in accordance with current and proposed employment legislation and local arrangements, to ensure consistency, accuracy and best practice

Build strong working relationships with union representatives and site stewards, including supporting the Head of HR with collective consultation requirements.

Support with the recruitment of roles into the site and ensure a smooth onboarding and induction process with all new starters.

Support the management of complex employee cases relating to disciplinary, grievance and sickness absence. This includes providing advice to managers on policy/procedure and legislation, liaising with Occupational Health, supporting formal investigations and hearings.

Manage sickness absence in collaboration with managers, assisting staff back to work and working with managers to reduce sickness absence across the organisation.

Support the wider HR Team in implementing and embedding new strategies and initiatives across the organisation.

Build good working relationships with all line managers in order to better understand their needs and provide appropriate HR related support.

Maintain accurate HR records and support with data analysis.

Support with time and attendance and HR system queries.

Maintain accurate and up to date records and reports and provide written and verbal reports as required.

• Strong knowledge of Human Resources (HR) processes and best practices
• Experience of working in a HR Department at HR Generalist level.
• Ideally has demonstratable experience operating in a standalone capacity.
• Comprehensive knowledge of UK employment law and best practices.
• Demonstratable experience managing a variety of employee relations cases.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving and organisation skills.
• Comfortable engaging with Trade Unions
• Strong investigation and problem-solving skills, with a balanced and objective approach
• Experience of interpreting policies, procedures and situations in order to identify pragmatic solutions/ recommendations.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment is a plus
• CIPD qualification or progress towards it is highly desirable