Human Resources Manager

HR Operations Manager Location: Dartford, on site Contract: Permanent, full timeWe\’re looking for an HR Operations Manager who\’s not just process-savvy – but people-smart to join our client in Dartford. If you\’re ready to lead with empathy, adapt quickly, and make confident decisions in a dynamic setting, this could be the role for you.About the RoleAs HR Operations Manager, you\’ll lead a small but mighty HR team, delivering high-quality, people-focused support across the employee lifecycle. From complex employee relations to onboarding, compliance, and coaching, you\’ll be the go-to expert for practical, compassionate, and operationally aware HR guidance. This isn\’t a role for someone who needs a rigid rulebook. We\’re legally compliant and committed to fair treatment, but we\’re not bound by process. We value judgement and people over process.You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping HR practices, driving continuous improvement, and fostering a culture of fairness, trust, and inclusion.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, coach, and develop the HR team to deliver responsive and effective support.Oversee day-to-day HR operations, ensuring consistency, compliance, and quality.Provide expert advice on complex employee relations matters (absence, conduct, performance, grievance).Support and coach managers in formal meetings, investigations, and hearings.Maintain accurate and confidential employee records.Ensure smooth onboarding and offboarding experiences.Interpret and apply HR policy with clarity and consistency.Ensure all HR activity is legally compliant and aligned with company values.Build strong relationships across the business as a trusted advisor.Deliver essential manager skills training to build leadership capability.What We’re Looking ForProven experience in an HR advisory role, ideally in a fast-paced and pragmatic environment.Strong background in handling complex employee relations cases with fairness and empathy.Experience influencing and guiding people decisions at management level.Team leadership experience desirable, but a collaborative mindset and coaching ability essential.Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to influence at all levels.High emotional intelligence, resilience, and a pragmatic, people-first approach.Solid organisational skills, able to manage competing and changing priorities.In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.HR qualifications are welcomed but not essential – values and practical experience are what really count.Why Join Us?This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact in a growing, people-focused organisation. You’ll have the autonomy to shape HR operations, the support of a collaborative team, and the chance to drive continuous improvement while keeping people at the heart of every decision.Our client is offering a competitive salary and some excellent benefits including upto 52 days paid holiday per year.