HR Lead in Manchester

We're looking for someone with a real commitment to people – not just as an HR professional, but as someone who understands that how an organisation treats its staff reflects its values. At Macc, how we support our staff is part of what we stand for. The HR Lead plays a key role in making sure that holds true in practice and that we lead by example.

You'll need solid HR knowledge and experience – ideally to CIPD Level 5 standard, or with equivalent experience and a willingness to work towards that qualification – but we're equally interested in your judgement and your ability to adapt good practice to the realities of a small, values‑led organisation. This isn't a role for someone who needs a large team around them or a rigid structure to operate in. You'll be largely standalone, which means being confident making decisions independently while knowing when to bring others in. You’ll need a pragmatic, problem‑solving mindset.

You'll be balancing strategic work (thinking about culture, workforce development and equity and inclusion) alongside the day‑to‑day operational needs of a busy charity. The ability to hold both without losing sight of either is important. You’ll need to be organised and thorough, keeping track of key developments and ensuring actions are delivered promptly. Integrity is fundamental in this role. Staff and managers need to feel they can rely on you and come to you openly, so being discreet, non‑judgmental, and empathetic aren't optional extras, they're core to doing the job well. A high level of trust is essential. Strong communication skills are also key.

You'll be writing HR papers for our Board of Trustees and Management, coaching line managers, welcoming new staff, supporting existing staff and contributing to learning and development work with VCSE organisations across the city. Macc wants to model what an inclusive employer, committed to equity and inclusion, looks like for the sector we serve. We're looking for someone who will help us keep improving – bringing that understanding into their day to day HR practice not just their values statement.

This is a great opportunity for someone looking to develop a career in HR in this sector, with development support available through practical experience and formal study. The role will especially suit someone who's motivated by the purpose behind the work. Macc exists to support the VCSE sector in Manchester and how we operate should reflect that. If HR done well in a purpose‑led sounds like the right challenge for you, we'd love to hear from you.

Salary: £28,800 per annum, pro‑ra, increasing to £33,054 on gaining CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management

Hours: 21 hours per week (0.6 FTE) Tuesday–Thursday. Flexible with core hours 10am‑3pm

Location: St Thomas Centre with some working from home flexibility

Contract: Permanent

Reporting to: Head of Finance and HR

Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management OR 5 years relevant HR experience and willingness to work towards achieving CIPD Level 5

Application deadline: 15th June 2026, 12pm

Key responsibilities:

• Strategy and Leadership: Develop and implement HR strategies, policies, and programs that support organisational goals and provide guidance to the Management Team and the Board
• Talent Management: Oversee recruitment, onboarding, talent development, succession planning, and performance management systems
• Culture and Engagement: Champion Equity and Inclusion and nurture a strong organisational culture rooted in our values
• Coaching: Coach and support line managers on effective people leadership and development
• Employee Relations: Manage complex employee relations cases, grievances, disciplinary actions and promote a positive work environment
• HR Operations: Drive continuous improvement in HR processes, manage HR data, and oversee annual HR cycles (e.g. appraisals and surveys)
• Compliance and Risk: Ensure adherence to all legislation, regulations, and organisational policies, managing HR risks. Oversee the understanding of employment legislation to protect the charity and its employees.
• Communication and Emotional Intelligence: Provide strong skills in conflict resolution, negotiation, and empathy
• Change Management: Help the charity to adapt to new technologies and structures
• Data Analytics: Introduce tools for talent planning, engagement and accountability

Key information:

• Employer: Manchester Community Central
• Locations: Manchester
• Role Type: Permanent
• Working Hours: Part‑Time (21 hours per week)

Benefits:

• Flexible working: adjusted working hours, hybrid or home working, office space at St Thomas Centre and personal choice of working pattern
• Wellbeing support: confidential mental health first aiders, regular team social activities and monthly ‘Re‑energise Afternoons’ to rest and recharge
• Carers support: five days paid carers' leave per year for those with ongoing caring responsibilities plus additional support
• Menstrual Health and Menopause friendly workplace: support and education to help staff manage symptoms
• Professional development: Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and dedicated budgets for external training and growth
• Volunteering leave: up to 2 days per year (pro‑rata) with pay to engage in voluntary activities
• Active travel incentives: support for public transport season tickets, a Cycle to Work scheme and travel expenses for cyclists