Human Resources Manager

Why Universal Works?

Universal Works is a down-to-earth but dedicated group of people who love what they do, and love what they wear. We put great design, community and trying to do the right thing at the heart of what we do, always approaching our work with responsibility, passion and a sense of humour. We are constantly striving to drive a culture we are proud of, and whether we are having a chat around the coffee machine or a company-wide meeting, everyone feels heard. A creative bunch with a keen eye for clothing, there is a real excitement around the future of UW and how we will all be involved in getting there.

Our perks include competitive salaries and holiday allowance, enhanced maternity and paternity leave, flexible working policies and (the one you were waiting for) a very decent clothing discount and allowance. Staff are given the opportunity to give back, with plenty of charity volunteering days and initiatives.

Our growing team work from an office that has some of the best views in Nottingham, a warehouse and design studio not far from our HQ, and our stores in Nottingham and London. We are stocked across the globe from Los Angeles to Seoul—so you will never be too far from a Universal Works product anywhere in the world.

We are currently looking for the following:

Human Resources Manager

Full-time position, office based in Nottingham

Closing Date: Wednesday 22nd January 2025

With a team of 64, and growing, working across several locations including retail stores in Nottingham and London we need a full-time HR generalist.

The main duties will include:

• Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the overall business strategy and objectives.
• Create comprehensive human resources policies, procedures and guidelines that comply with legislation and general company criteria.
• Management of employee relations by supporting and coaching the management team on all people leadership matters, including business change and transformation.
• Forming strong relationships with the management team to be able to challenge and coach in a high-performance environment.
• Partner with management teams to lead, manage, and implement operational changes within the business.
• Oversee all HR functions, including recruitment and selection, Health & Safety, discipline, grievance handling, mentoring, compensation, contracts, training and development, talent management, succession planning, and performance appraisals.
• Oversee the day-to-day management of the recruitment process, including reviewing job descriptions, website and other advertising, sifting and selecting CVs, arranging and attending interviews and selecting candidates.
• Lead the onboarding process for new hires, designing and implementing an engaging induction experience, ensuring legal compliance, and facilitating smooth integration into the company.
• Contribute to business success by enhancing employee engagement, motivation, and retention through tailored development and improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate on projects to drive continuous improvement, such as changes to working practices and organisational restructuring.
• Working with Directors and management on establishing and maintaining appropriate systems for identifying, planning, delivering and measuring learning and development.
• Develop training materials and coordinate with external training providers, while ensuring all programs align with business objectives and remain within budget.
• Regularly benchmark and evaluate the company\’s salary and benefits packages, ensuring competitiveness in the marketplace and implementing necessary changes.
• Be a proactive member of the management team helping to highlight and resolve any issues/challenges as and when they arise.

Special requirements:

• CIPD qualified (Level 5 and above) or relevant HR degree with relevant knowledge of employment law and implementing these into the company culture.
• Proven track record as a HR generalist, preferably in a senior role.
• At least 5+ years of management experience.
• Experience of designing and delivering coaching/mentoring, learning and development programmes and facilitate with external training and development organisations.
• Proficiency in drafting HR policies, procedures, employment contracts, and offers.
• Knowledge of HR Information Systems, payroll and payroll procedures.
• A ‘hands on’ approach, self-motivated and a good team player.
• Previous experience of having worked in Clothing & Footwear or Retail environments would be very beneficial.

The package:

• Competitive.
• Hours: Mon – Thurs 9:00 – 5:30, Fri 9:00 to 3:00
• Half hour paid lunch each day
• Holidays: 28 days per annum increasing with service
• Pension
• Clothing Discount and Clothing Allowance.

Please apply to veda@universalworks.co.uk, sending your CV and covering letter.