At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the full employee lifecycle and support HR operations across UK and Ireland.
- Company: Join Europe's leading independent customs services provider with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Experience a fast-paced environment with real autonomy and a supportive HR team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee engagement and compliance in a growing international organisation.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or 7, 5+ years in HR, and strong knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About Customs Support Group
Customs Support Group (CSG) is Europe’s leading independent customs services provider. Founded in 1964, we operate in 14 European countries with 100+ offices and a team of 1,700+ customs professionals. We help companies move goods across borders smoothly and compliantly, taking the pressure out of customs.
What we do
We support more than 60,000 clients and process over 20 million declaration lines each year. From day‑to‑day customs declarations to compliance, duty optimization and trade advice, we make cross‑border trade easier and more predictable.
How we work
We combine local customs expertise with modern digital tools to handle large volumes accurately and at speed. Our technology helps teams work smarter, reduces manual effort, and improves turnaround times. In markets like the UK, this already led to clear productivity gains.
Why it matters
Customs rules are becoming more complex and mistakes are costly. Delays, compliance risks and unclear regulations can slow businesses down. CSG helps clients stay compliant, reduce risk and keep their supply chains moving.
Why Join Us
At CSG, you will be part of a growing international organization that is improving how customs work gets done. You will:
- Work with experienced customs professionals and technology teams
- Gain exposure to international trade and complex supply chains
- Contribute to services that have a real impact on global commerce
This is a chance to build a career in a stable but evolving industry, where expertise and good judgement still matter.
Purpose of the Position
Customs Support Group is looking for an experienced HR Business Partner to support our UK and Ireland operations. This is a hands‑on generalist role covering the full employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding through to performance management, employee relations, and offboarding. You will work closely with site leadership and operational managers, acting as a trusted first point of contact on all people matters. The role carries real ownership: you will lead on ER cases, shape local HR initiatives, and ensure compliance with employment legislation across both jurisdictions.
Main Responsibilities
- Employee Lifecycle Management
- Own end‑to‑end recruitment and onboarding across UK and Ireland sites
- Handle disciplinary, grievance, and performance management cases independently
- Manage absence processes including return‑to‑work, occupational health referrals, and long‑term cases
- Support talent reviews and succession planning with site leadership
- Administer changes to terms and conditions accurately and in line with legal requirements
- HR Operations and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with UK employment law and Irish employment legislation across all HR activity
- Maintain accurate HR records in line with GDPR requirements
- Provide clear, practical guidance to managers and employees on HR policies and procedures
- Reporting and Analytics
- Track and report on key HR metrics: absence, headcount, turnover, recruitment costs, and internal mobility
- Ensure HR data is accurate, accessible, and communicated effectively across the business
- Support preparation of HR reports for the Group HR Director
- Employee Engagement and Culture
- Drive local employee engagement initiatives in line with Group‑wide programmes
- Be a visible, approachable HR presence, someone managers and employees trust to come to with real issues
- Promote wellbeing and a positive working environment through practical initiatives
- Continuous Improvement
- Identify gaps or inefficiencies in HR processes and propose practical solutions
- Contribute to the development and rollout of Group HR policies at a local level
What to Expect
- Hybrid Base role
- A varied, fast‑paced environment in a company growing rapidly through acquisition and organic expansion
- Close day‑to‑day collaboration with site leadership and operational managers
- Real autonomy in the role, supported by the wider Group HR function
- Smart/casual dress code
Job Requirements
- CIPD Level 5 minimum; Level 7 preferred
- 5+ years of experience in a generalist HR or HRBP role
- Solid working knowledge of UK employment law; familiarity with Irish employment legislation is a strong advantage
- Proven track record managing complex ER cases independently
- Comfortable working with HR data and using it to inform decisions
- Strong interpersonal and influencing skills, able to build trust quickly and challenge constructively
- Highly organised, accurate, and able to manage multiple priorities
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and HR systems
- Committed to personal and professional development
HRBP at Customs Support Group in Felixstowe employer: Customs Support Group
At Customs Support Group, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the customs services sector, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration. Our team enjoys a hybrid working model, a smart/casual dress code, and the opportunity to engage with experienced professionals while making a tangible impact on global trade. With a commitment to employee wellbeing and continuous improvement, CSG is dedicated to creating a supportive culture where every team member can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HRBP at Customs Support Group in Felixstowe
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Customs Support Group!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Customs Support Group.
We think you need these skills to ace HRBP at Customs Support Group in Felixstowe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Customs Support Group. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Customs Support Group and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Customs Support Group. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Customs Support Group's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Customs Support Group
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Customs Support Group.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Customs Support Group will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Customs Support Group and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.