HR & Employee Relations Specialist
Complete Childcare | 17 nurseries and pre-schools across Berkshire & Oxfordshire
£45,000 – £50,000 DOE · Full-time, all year · Mon–Fri, 9:00–17:00 · Aldermaston head office, with travel across our settings
A big ER remit, a small team to lead, and 17 settings to shape. If you want hands-on HR with real influence, this is it.
The role
We're a growing group of 17 day nurseries caring for children from 3 months to 5 years. Our people make that happen — and we need a specialist to look after them. This is a varied, hands-on role spanning employee relations, HR operations and strategic support, working directly with managers and the executive team. You'll also lead a small HR team, so it's a strong step up for anyone who wants leadership without leaving the day job behind.
What you'll own
· End-to-end ER casework across all our settings — disciplinary, grievance, absence, performance and capability.
· Practical, commercially minded advice to managers at every level, plus the documentation to back it up.
· Compliance with UK employment law, group policy and Safer Recruitment — including recruitment activity across the group.
· HR policies, systems, records, benefits and onboarding: accurate, consistent and fit for a growing business.
· People data and trends — spotting risk early and acting on it.
· Wider projects: restructures, TUPE, consultation and executive-team initiatives.
· A small HR team (payroll and recruitment), with clear direction and support.
What you'll bring
· Proven experience in a broad HR role with strong Employee Relations casework behind you.
· Solid working knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
· Experience supporting managers through complex, sensitive people matters.
· Experience managing or mentoring a small team.
· Sharp communication, organisation and problem-solving — and the confidence to decide and own it.
· CIPD Level 5 or above, or equivalent experience (essential).
Nice to have
· Early years, education, childcare or care sector experience.
· Ofsted and safeguarding knowledge.
· Multi-site working, TUPE or organisational change.
Why Complete Childcare
· A key seat in a thriving, growing business — and real influence with the senior team.
· A supportive, collaborative leadership culture.
· Ongoing training, development and room to progress.
Our purpose
We create nurseries where everyone is excited by life and learning — and that includes our teams.
The essentials
Complete Childcare is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young children. All applicants must complete an application form; offers are conditional on two satisfactory references, a right to work check and an enhanced DBS check. We are an equal opportunities employer and appoint, reward and promote on merit.
HR & Employee Relations Specialist in Reading employer: Complete Childcare
Complete Childcare is an exceptional employer for those passionate about early years education, offering a nurturing environment at Boot Farm Nursery where staff feel valued and supported. With fully funded professional qualifications, ongoing training, and a strong focus on career development, employees can thrive in their roles while enjoying competitive salaries, generous leave, and unique benefits like childcare discounts and access to a Virtual GP service. Join our welcoming team and embark on a rewarding journey in childcare, where your contributions make a real difference in children's lives.
