At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR initiatives, manage employee relations, and drive organisational change.
- Company: Join Energy Systems Catapult, a leader in Net Zero energy innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on innovation and teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment focused on sustainability.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Energy Systems Catapult is an independent research and technology organisation. Our mission is to accelerate Net Zero energy innovation. Launched in 2015 by Innovate UK, the Catapult has built a team of more than 250 people, with a range of technical, engineering, consumer, commercial, incubation, digital and policy expertise. They draw on sector-leading test facilities, modelling tools, and data collected from our back catalogue of more than 500 research projects. We use that ‘whole energy’ system capability to support innovative companies -- small and large – to test, trial and scale their new products and services. Our impact comes when those innovators attract new customers, new investment and new grants so they can thrive in the future energy system.
Based in Birmingham, Energy Systems Catapult is part of a network of nine, world-leading technology and innovation centres, established by Innovate UK. The Catapult Network fosters collaboration between industry, government, research organisations, academia, and many others to transform great ideas into valuable products and services. We believe that innovation often stems from connecting different areas and ideas, and that working together in person can be an important enabler for that. We therefore expect people to be in the Birmingham office ~40 days/year (roughly one day per week).
The HR team (currently consisting of a team of 5) has built a solid reputation for day-to-day HR operational delivery and for also designing and implementing effective people solutions. The Senior HR Advisor will be responsible for the following:
- Lead complex employee relations cases including disciplinaries, grievances, absence, and performance issues, appeals
- Lead on HR policies, processes, and frameworks
- Partner with senior managers to support business objectives through people strategies
- Support the Head of HR with strategy, project work design, implementation & delivery
- Lead with design and delivery of line management training
- Take ownership of projects and processes including annual bonus and pay review cycle, Listening Survey, Gender Pay Gap and benchmarking
- Own performance management frameworks and processes and drive capability across the organisation
- Act as a trusted advisor to hiring managers, providing challenge and guidance on recruitment decisions where needed
- Support and drive organisational change initiatives
- Oversee HR systems, reporting, and data-driven outcomes
- Identify trends in HR metrics and implement solutions to improve retention, engagement, and performance
- Support the HR Advisor with payroll and benefits, ensuring accuracy and efficiency, processing where cover is required
- Ensure legal compliance and manage HR risk across the organisation
- Provision of admin support
What credentials are we ideally looking for?
- Thorough knowledge of employment law, including all facets of a fast-moving HR service and exposure/management of payroll including sound knowledge, understanding and practical application of HR best practice & legislation
- Outstanding PC Skills - including Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook
- Experience of using HR systems
- High levels of accuracy and attention to detail, along with strong organisational skills (including the ability to prioritise own workload) and able to perform well under pressure when required
- Ability to build credible stakeholder relationships
- Demonstrate discretion, tact, confidentiality and professionalism
- A proactive approach, with ability to work in a dynamic environment to meet business needs
- Highly motivated
- Adaptable well to change
- Dependable and team orientated
- Strong presentation and communication skills
- Ability to excel in fast-paced organisational environment with lots of variety
- Taking ownership of work and managing this effectively and efficiently
- Open to change and adapts well to setbacks or pressurised situations
- Supportive, positive and constructive in relation to your interactions with colleagues and external organisations
- Open to the adoption of new technologies, approaches and ways of doing things
Senior Human Resources Advisor in Birmingham employer: Energy Systems Catapult
Energy Systems Catapult is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering innovation in the energy sector while providing a collaborative and supportive work environment. With a strong focus on employee growth, the HR team is committed to developing effective people strategies and offering training opportunities, ensuring that every team member can thrive. Located in Birmingham, employees benefit from a vibrant city atmosphere and the chance to engage with a diverse network of industry leaders, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Human Resources Advisor in Birmingham
✨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 Energy Systems Catapult!
✨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 Energy Systems Catapult.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Human Resources Advisor in Birmingham
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 Energy Systems Catapult. 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 Energy Systems Catapult 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 Energy Systems Catapult. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Energy Systems Catapult'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 Energy Systems Catapult
✨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 Energy Systems Catapult.
✨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 Energy Systems Catapult 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 Energy Systems Catapult and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
