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- Tasks: Join our HR team to deliver expert advice on employee relations in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Next is a leading UK retailer, known for its innovative online and high street presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts on merchandise, free parking, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced team that values growth, collaboration, and professional development.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR/ER is essential; a CIPD qualification is preferred or in progress.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to make a real impact in a large distribution network.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Next is one of the biggest and best known online and high street retailers in the UK. At the heart of our operation, we have a state-of-the-art warehousing and logistics business employing more than 9,000 people across our network. We thrive by constantly adapting and innovating to meet the growth in demand for our online operations, which serve over 5 million global customers across more than 70 countries. Life at Next is fast-paced, varied, and challenging, requiring a large, talented, and efficient operation working together.
Our HR & TD team plays a vital role in partnering with the operations to deliver a professional and expert HR service. We are looking to recruit a talented HR Specialist to join our large HR team for the Warehouse and Distribution Division of Next. The role involves delivering the HR plan in a fast-paced environment.
As an HR Specialist, you will be responsible for providing comprehensive, consistent, and professional advice in Employee Relations, focusing on complex ER situations. You will support, advise, and provide feedback to managers on disciplinary actions, grievances, long-term sickness/absence cases, and organizational change projects. You will be an onsite presence, providing expertise to ensure a consistent HR approach across all of Next Distribution. You will also be the first point of contact for HR queries from managers via telephone and email, and will build strong working relationships with key stakeholders and union representatives.
About you
You should be an experienced HR Advisor/Specialist with generalist HR/ER experience, ideally in a high-volume, fast-paced manufacturing or distribution environment, with a strong working knowledge of current employment legislation. You should also have, or be working towards, a CIPD qualification.
HR Specialist employer: Next
Contact Detail:
Next Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific HR challenges faced in high-volume distribution environments. Understanding the unique dynamics of such settings will help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former HR professionals at Next or similar companies. Engaging in conversations can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which you can leverage in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current employment legislation and trends in employee relations. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also position you as a knowledgeable candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully handled complex employee relations issues. Having concrete examples ready will showcase your problem-solving skills and experience effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant HR experience, particularly in Employee Relations and fast-paced environments. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to handle complex ER situations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for HR and your understanding of the role at Next. Mention your experience with disciplinary actions and grievances, and how you can contribute to their HR team.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a CIPD qualification or are working towards one, make sure to mention it prominently. This shows your commitment to professional development in HR.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since the role involves advising managers and building relationships with stakeholders, emphasise your strong communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed HR queries in the past.
How to prepare for a job interview at Next
✨Know Your HR Fundamentals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practices. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're well-prepared and understand the complexities of the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to be asked about specific situations you might face as an HR Specialist. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully handled disciplinary actions or grievances, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an HR Specialist, you'll need to communicate effectively with managers and employees alike. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and listen actively to the interviewers' questions.
✨Research Next's Culture and Values
Familiarise yourself with Next's company culture and values. Showing that you align with their mission and understand their fast-paced environment will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in the role.
