At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR functions and be the go-to person for employee queries.
- Company: Join a leading animal welfare charity making a global impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous holiday, and wellness perks.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a dynamic team while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience with HR systems are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 21372 - 24000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a well organised, customer focused professional to join the busy People Team. This is a part-time permanent contract, to start as soon as possible, working 28 hours per week.
Position: People Team Assistant
Location: Devon/Hybrid (onsite attendance currently anticipated to be 2-4 days per month)
Hours: Part-time 28 hours per week (could be worked 09.00 – 15.30 over 5 days, Monday – Friday or over 4 days working 08.30 – 16.30 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday)
Salary: £26,715 per annum pro rata (actual £21,372)
Contract: Part-time
Closing Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026. However, we reserve the right to close this role early if a suitable candidate is found.
About the Role
You will provide high quality administrative support across all HR/People functions and act as a trusted first point of contact for employee enquiries. You will be confident using HR systems, have a keen eye for detail and demonstrate excellent communication skills. As a People Team Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting the smooth running of the People Team operations. Your responsibilities will include:
- Acting as the first point of contact for People Team enquiries
- Managing the Applications and HR Helpdesk inboxes
- Preparing employment contracts and conducting Right to Work checks
- Instructing payroll on new starters, leavers and contractual changes
- Coordinating induction days
- Maintaining and updating absence and holiday records
- Managing DBS renewals for employees, volunteers and trustees, as well as other safeguarding checks
- Raising purchase orders, processing invoices, and coordinating with Procurement to set up new suppliers in eBIS (UK and international)
- Generating and distributing weekly and monthly reports to internal and external stakeholders
About You
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate an understanding of HR/People Team principles, processes, and HRIS systems. You will:
- Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Have experience of using Microsoft Office skills, including Excel, Outlook and calendar management, to a high level
- Have high accuracy and attention to detail when handling data and documentation
- Demonstrate excellent organisation skills and ability to manage a varied workload in a fast-paced environment
- Be able to demonstrate the ability to work confidentially, collaboratively, and on own initiative
As part of the process, you will be asked to upload your CV and Cover Letter once you click to apply.
Benefits include:
- Competitive pension
- Life assurance – 2 x annual salary
- Healthshield
- 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 will each full year of service
- Wellbeing team
- Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes
- Long service awards
- Healthshield plan
- Free parking
- Subsidised restaurant and shop
About the Organisation
The sanctuary is one of the UK’s largest international animal welfare charities, currently supporting projects in over 35 countries worldwide, working for a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued. The Charity is a Disability Confident Employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults) and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post.
People Team Assistant in Devon employer: Donkey Sanctuary
Contact Detail:
Donkey Sanctuary Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People Team Assistant in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your skills align with their mission, especially in supporting the People Team's operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence. Focus on showcasing your communication skills and attention to detail, which are key for the People Team Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to contribute to the smooth running of the People Team.
We think you need these skills to ace People Team Assistant in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the People Team Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills, especially in HR systems and administration. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your background aligns with our mission. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: As a People Team Assistant, communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, let us see your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Donkey Sanctuary
✨Know Your HR Basics
Brush up on your understanding of HR principles and processes. Familiarise yourself with common HRIS systems and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This will show that you’re not just a good fit for the role, but that you’re genuinely interested in the field.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a People Team Assistant, communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively handled employee enquiries or resolved issues in previous jobs. Practising clear and concise responses will help you shine during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Be ready to talk about how you manage your workload, especially in fast-paced environments. Share specific strategies you use to stay organised, like prioritising tasks or using tools to track deadlines. This will highlight your ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the People Team's operations or the organisation's culture. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you determine if it’s the right fit for you.