HR Officer in Lisburn

Cala Consulting is recruiting for an experienced HR Officer on behalf of an established, multi-site professional services organisation based in Belfast. This newly created role offers the opportunity to establish and take ownership of the organisation's first internal HR function. The Role Reporting to the Financial Controller, you will develop a practical, fit-for-purpose HR function that supports the organisation's people, culture and business objectives. This is a broad, hands-on position covering the full employee lifecycle, with no direct reports at present. You will provide professional advice and direct support to senior leaders and line managers, ensuring that people matters are managed consistently, fairly and in line with Northern Ireland and UK employment legislation. The role requires sound judgement, strong communication skills and the confidence to establish effective HR processes in a changing environment. Key Responsibilities Take ownership of the HR function, including induction and onboarding, objective setting, appraisals, talent development, recruitment, absence management, performance management, employee relations, learning and development, internal communications and HR administration. Provide expert guidance, coaching and practical support to senior leaders and line managers across the full range of people-management matters. Keep employment-law developments under review and advise management on compliance, risk and HR best practice. Support and manage investigations, disciplinary matters, grievances and individual employee-relations cases, ensuring a fair and consistent approach. Develop, maintain and communicate accurate contracts of employment, HR policies, procedures and the employee handbook. Lead recruitment and selection activity, manage recruitment campaigns and coordinate relationships with relevant external agencies, education providers and professional bodies. Support apprenticeship, trainee and graduate development programmes and wider talent-development initiatives. Monitor absence levels, coordinate occupational-health referrals and provide clear monthly HR reports and key performance indicators. Coordinate accurate and timely payroll information and employee changes, including new hires, temporary workers, transfers, promotions and leavers. Maintain accurate HR information, personnel records and right-to-work documentation in line with legal and data-protection requirements. Manage HR, training and headcount budgets, providing management information and updates as required. Advise on immigration and work-visa matters and liaise with relevant external advisers and authorities when necessary. Organise and monitor statutory health and safety training and contribute to continuous improvement and quality initiatives. Essential Skills and Experience A minimum of five years' experience in an HR Officer or comparable generalist HR role. Educated to degree level or above. Membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Strong working knowledge of Northern Ireland and UK employment legislation and HR best practice. Confident use of HR information systems and Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, using sound judgement with minimal supervision. Strong organisation and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage several projects and changing demands while meeting deadlines. High attention to detail and a consistent record of producing accurate, high-quality work. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence contributing to meetings and delivering formal presentations. A practical, positive approach, strong work ethic and focus on delivery. Desirable Experience within a professional services environment, such as architecture, consulting engineering, accountancy or legal services. Skills: generalist HR Communication Attention to detail Benefits: pension flexible start and end time healthcare TPBN1_NI