At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, shaping a positive employee experience and ensuring compliance with UK legislation.
- Company: Join a dynamic firm committed to innovation and employee engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and engaging workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee experience and drive strategic HR initiatives.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with 5+ years of HR experience, strong knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Take ownership of the operational management and delivery of HR services across Ellacotts, ensuring alignment with our vision, values and business strategy. You’ll play a key role in shaping a positive employee experience, maintaining compliance with UK legislation, and acting as a trusted advisor to leaders, employees, and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy, Planning & Operations
- Partner with the Head of People & Innovation and management team to shape and deliver the firm’s people strategy.
- Align HR initiatives with business goals to drive measurable outcomes.
- Use data and insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities, recommending solutions where needed.
- Oversee HR systems and employee records, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Support workforce planning and budgeting across salaries, training and HR activities.
- Monitor trainee and apprentice progress, ensuring development, performance and study objectives are met.
- Effectively manage a varied workload, balancing competing priorities while maintaining an excellent quality service.
- Employee Relations & HR Expertise
- Provide expert, pragmatic advice on UK employment law and HR best practice.
- Lead and manage a full range of employee relations matters, including absence, performance, disciplinary and grievance processes.
- Review and enhance policies, procedures and working practices to support the evolving needs of the business.
- Ensure HR processes are consistently followed and continually improved.
- Talent Attraction
- Lead and develop the firm’s recruitment approach, working with agencies and internal stakeholders.
- Drive a proactive, multi‑channel attraction strategy (direct sourcing, social media, events, referrals and more).
- Ensure an efficient and high‑quality candidate experience.
- Talent Development
- Oversee onboarding and induction, ensuring a strong start for new joiners.
- Identify and deliver learning and development initiatives that support individual and business growth.
- Engagement & Retention
- Lead the employee engagement survey process, analysing results and supporting action planning.
- Support reward and recognition approaches that drive retention and performance.
- Create opportunities for employee voice and meaningful consultation.
- Performance & Payroll
- Manage and evolve the firm’s appraisal process and cycle.
- Coach managers on effective performance management.
- Oversee payroll inputs for the external provider, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- External Insight & Partnerships
- Build and manage relationships with external providers (e.g. recruiters, training partners).
- Stay informed on legislative changes and market trends, driving appropriate organisational responses.
- Internal Culture & Communication
- Support internal communications and key people initiatives.
- Contribute to CSR activity, including social and charitable events across the firm.
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Support health and safety compliance, including risk assessments and first aid provision.
- Leadership & Team Management
- Lead, coach and develop the HR team.
- Delegate effectively and support continuous development within the team.
- Contribute to wider firm initiatives and support partners as required.
Skills & Experience
- CIPD qualified (or degree or equivalent experience).
- Minimum 5 years’ HR experience within a commercial environment, including at least 2 years at HR Manager level.
- Strong, up to date knowledge of UK employment law.
- Experience working in a commercial or professional services environment.
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Confident using HR systems and data to inform decisions.
Personal Qualities
- Credible, approachable and able to build trust quickly.
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Proactive, solutions‑focused and commercially aware.
- Resilient, driven and self‑motivated.
- Discreet and professional when handling sensitive matters.
Additional Requirements
- Based within commuting distance of Banbury.
- Willingness to travel to other offices as required.
- Flexibility to work outside normal hours when needed.
HR Manager in Banbury employer: Ellacotts Accountants
At Ellacotts, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. As an HR Manager, you will have the opportunity to shape employee experiences while benefiting from our commitment to professional development, competitive remuneration, and a supportive environment that values innovation and engagement. Located in Banbury, we offer a vibrant community atmosphere with access to various local amenities, making it an ideal place for both personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Manager in Banbury
✨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 Ellacotts Accountants!
✨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 Ellacotts Accountants.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Manager in Banbury
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 Ellacotts Accountants. 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 Ellacotts Accountants 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 Ellacotts Accountants. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Ellacotts Accountants'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 Ellacotts Accountants
✨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 Ellacotts Accountants.
✨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 Ellacotts Accountants 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 Ellacotts Accountants and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
