HR Manager - People Services in Sedgefield

£47,000 – £59,500 per annum – dependent on experience

CPI helps make great ideas and inventions areality. We’re ateam of intelligent people using advances in science and technology to solve the biggest global challenges in healthcare and sustainability.

Through our incredible people and innovation infrastructure, we collaborate with our partners in industry, academia, government, and the investment community to accelerate the development and commercialisation of innovative products.

From health technologies and pharmaceuticals to sustainable food and materials innovations, we turn the entrepreneurial spirit and radical thinking of our people and partners into incredible impact that makes our world abetter place.

Why this role is important for CPI’s work

Are you a senior HR professional with a passion for operational excellence and people-first service? Join us at CPI as our HR Manager – People Services and help shape a world-class employee experience.

This is your opportunity to build and inspire a high-performing team, oversee core HR processes, and partner with senior leaders to make a real impact on how our people experience life at CPI. If you’re a confident communicator, an empathetic leader, and excited by the chance to shape HR excellence—we want to hear from you.

About the Role

As HR Manager – People Services, you’ll lead the delivery and continuous improvement of core HR services across the employee lifecycle. From onboarding to offboarding, payroll administration to policy, you’ll ensure seamless, compliant, and people-centric HR operations. You’ll also drive digital transformation, data governance, and lead on key HR projects that align with our People Plan and HR Vision: People First – Purpose Led.

About the Department

Our People Services team is at the heart of CPI’s HR function, driving digital transformation, system governance, and project execution. We are committed to delivering a world-class employee experience and supporting the People and Culture Strategy and CPI’s Vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing People Services team
• Oversee onboarding, payroll, benefits, and HR compliance
• Manage HR systems and ensure data integrity and GDPR compliance
• Deliver insightful HR analytics and dashboards
• Lead on HR projects and continuous improvement initiatives
• Partner with senior leaders to enhance employee experience, operational excellence and engagement
• Help shape and deliver a world-class employee experience across the organisation

The person we are seeking

• Degree in Human Resources (CIPD or Master’s desirable)
• Practical understanding and experience in key HR processes and practices.
• Proven experience in HR operations and project management
• Strong data and systems expertise (Excel, HRIS, reporting tools)
• A confident communicator and empathetic leader
• Passion for coaching, collaboration, and innovation

It would be great if you also had:

• Project Management certification.
• Deep knowledge of HR policy, governance, and auditing.
• Experience in HR systems and digital transformation initiatives.

What does CPI offer you?

At CPI, we offer a wide range of benefits to our employees, this includes:

• Up to 36 days holiday, including bank holidays – Plus a holiday purchasing scheme
• Life assurance and accident insurance schemes

CPI is an organisation based in the UK. Commencement of employment is conditional to demonstrating right to work in the UK, sponsorship may be available.