At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, recruitment, and policy development in a dynamic engineering environment.
- Company: Join an established engineering firm with ambitious growth plans and a diverse workforce.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid work options, and a generous pension contribution.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping HR practices during a transformative growth phase.
- Qualifications: Experience as an HR Advisor, strong communication skills, and CIPD Level 5 preferred.
- Other info: This role offers empowerment and the chance to work closely with senior leadership.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 48000 £ per year.
Salary: £40,000 – £45,000 dependant on experience
Working Pattern: Hybrid (1 day remote per week)
Benefits:
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Westfield Health
- 5% employer pension contribution (matched)
We are looking for an experienced and proactive Senior HR Advisor to join our client in Aylesbury. They are an established engineering business with a strong heritage and ambitious plans for expansion. This is a pivotal role working closely with the Head of HR where you’ll act as a trusted number two, taking ownership of day-to-day operations and freeing up their strategic capacity at senior level.
The company is going through an exciting period of transformation, with a goal to double in size through organic growth and acquisitions. With a current headcount of 110+ and a diverse workforce across engineering, corporate, and manufacturing functions, the people agenda is both complex and rewarding.
You’ll be the key link between operational HR delivery and strategic goals, with a remit that spans employee relations, recruitment, policy development, and line manager capability building. This role offers the opportunity to genuinely make your mark and shape HR practices in a business where HR is truly valued by senior leadership.
About the role:
- Acting as the go-to HR contact for operational matters, escalating appropriately to the Head of HR
- Providing practical and confident guidance to managers on employee relations, performance, absence, and policy interpretation
- Leading end-to-end recruitment for a variety of roles (from engineering to professional functions)
- Supporting the development of HR policies, procedures, and documentation
- Coaching and upskilling managers in effective people management
- Contributing to HR project work, including workforce planning and organisational change initiatives
About you:
- Proven experience in a generalist HR Advisor or Senior HR Advisor role
- Comfortable working in a hands-on environment with changing priorities and operational pressures
- Able to manage end-to-end recruitment, ER casework, and policy development independently
- Strong communication skills with the confidence to challenge and advise managers at all levels
- Experience in a manufacturing or complex, fast-paced environment would be beneficial
- CIPD Level 5 or equivalent preferred
- Comfortable using Excel and internal systems
This is a rare opportunity to step into a key HR role where you’ll be trusted, valued, and empowered to make real change. You’ll be joining at a critical point in the company’s growth journey — with exciting projects and transformation on the horizon. If you're looking to take on more responsibility, shape the future of HR in a growing organisation, and work closely with a strategic HR leader, this could be the perfect move.
For more information, please contact Jacqui Wall on 0203 800 1500.
Senior HR Advisor employer: Ashley Kate HR & Finance
Contact Detail:
Ashley Kate HR & Finance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior HR Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the company's current HR practices and challenges. Research their recent projects or changes in HR policies to demonstrate your understanding of their needs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your ability to handle employee relations and recruitment effectively. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated complex HR situations in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of the company on platforms like LinkedIn. This can provide you with insider insights about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your adaptability and hands-on approach by discussing how you've thrived in fast-paced environments. Highlight any experience you have in manufacturing or similar sectors to align with the company's operational context.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior HR Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in HR, particularly in areas like employee relations, recruitment, and policy development. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage end-to-end recruitment and provide guidance on HR matters.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for HR and your understanding of the company's goals. Mention how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in a fast-paced environment, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to their transformation.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have a CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent, make sure to mention it prominently. Also, include any other relevant certifications or training that demonstrate your commitment to professional development in HR.
Showcase Communication Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your strong communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully advised managers at various levels and handled complex HR situations, as this is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashley Kate HR & Finance
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in HR, particularly in employee relations and recruitment. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed complex HR issues or improved processes.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Since this role involves supporting strategic goals, be ready to talk about how you've contributed to HR strategies in the past. Discuss any initiatives you've led that align with business growth or transformation.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world HR scenarios. Think of examples where you've had to navigate challenging situations, such as managing performance issues or developing policies.
✨Emphasise Your Communication Skills
Strong communication is key in this role. Be prepared to demonstrate how you've effectively communicated with managers and employees at all levels, and how you've coached others in people management.