HR Manager

We are looking for an approachable, commercially minded and proactive HR Manager to lead the day-to-day HR function and support the wider people strategy. This is a broad generalist role with a strong focus on employee engagement, manager development and building strong relationships across the business. The successful candidate will work closely with managers and stakeholders at all levels, providing practical HR advice while helping managers develop the confidence and skills to lead their teams effectively.

We are looking for someone who is flexible, people-focused and willing to try different approaches. While a solid HR background is important, attitude, judgement and the ability to build relationships are just as important as experience. Many of our managers and leaders have progressed within NWS, so this role offers genuine scope for someone ambitious to develop and take their next career step.

Lead the employee engagement agenda across the business. Develop and manage a busy annual calendar of activities, events and initiatives. Encourage involvement from all departments and create opportunities for teams to connect. Support wellbeing, recognition, communication and employee feedback initiatives. Bring fresh ideas to improve employee experience and create a positive, inclusive culture.

Build the confidence and capability of managers at all levels. Develop and deliver practical manager training, workshops and coaching. Support managers with areas such as performance, communication, absence, difficult conversations, employee engagement and team development. Encourage managers to take greater ownership of their teams and people responsibilities. Identify development needs and help managers become stronger, more effective leaders.

Build trusted relationships with managers, senior leaders and key stakeholders. Provide practical, commercially focused HR advice. Support managers with employee relations matters including absence, performance, conduct, capability and grievance. Coach managers to resolve issues effectively and at the appropriate level. Support organisational change and other people-related projects. Ensure HR practices remain fair, consistent and compliant with UK employment legislation.

Manage, support and develop the Recruitment Specialist and HR & Payroll Assistant. Provide direction and ensure the HR team delivers an effective and responsive service. Encourage collaboration and continuous improvement across the HR function.

Maintain practical HR policies, processes and guidance. Use HR, AI data and employee feedback to identify trends and areas for improvement. Support talent, succession and employee development activity. Look for ways to simplify processes and improve how HR supports the business, embracing AI throughout. Ensure HR priorities remain aligned with the wider business strategy.

• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills.
• Genuine interest in employee engagement and developing managers.
• Confidence delivering training, coaching or workshops.
• A practical, flexible and solutions-focused approach.
• Commercial awareness and good judgement.
• Ability to communicate confidently with employees, managers and senior stakeholders.
• Proactive, organised and comfortable managing a varied workload.
• A strong generalist HR background.
• Good knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Experience supporting managers with employee relations matters.

• CIPD Level 5, or working towards it.
• Equivalent practical HR experience will also be considered.
• Previous experience managing or supporting an…