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- 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 pension, health benefits, and 31 days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a dynamic team while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience with HR systems preferred.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 21372 - 26000 £ 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.
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 with 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 employer: Donkey Sanctuary
Contact Detail:
Donkey Sanctuary Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People Team Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the organisation's values and mission. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their People Team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to HR and administrative support. Think about examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in communication, organisation, and attention to detail.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech skills! Since you'll be using HR systems and Microsoft Office, be ready to discuss your proficiency with these tools. Maybe even mention a time when you used Excel to streamline a process or improve efficiency.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you another chance to reiterate why you're the perfect fit for the People Team Assistant position.
We think you need these skills to ace People Team Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the People Team Assistant role. Highlight your HR knowledge, communication skills, and any relevant administrative experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about joining our People Team and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: As a People Team Assistant, attention to detail is key. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. This shows us you take pride in your work and understand the importance of accuracy in HR tasks.
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 as soon as possible. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Donkey Sanctuary
✨Know Your HR Basics
Brush up on your understanding of HR principles and processes. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles, especially in areas like employee enquiries and contract preparation.
✨Show Off Your Organisation Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your organisational abilities. Think about times when you managed multiple tasks or maintained accurate records, as this will resonate well with the role's requirements.
✨Master Microsoft Office
Since you'll be using tools like Excel and Outlook, make sure you're comfortable discussing your experience with them. Maybe even bring a few examples of reports or documents you've created to showcase your skills.
✨Communicate Confidently
Practice your communication skills before the interview. Be prepared to demonstrate how you handle enquiries and collaborate with others, as strong interpersonal skills are key for this position.
