At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR initiatives and support a dynamic team in a luxury retail environment.
- Company: Join Ethic Search Partners, a leader in HR consulting for luxury brands.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career growth, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Other info: Regular store visits and occasional travel to France required.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee engagement and HR transformation in a prestigious company.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree and experience in HR or commercial roles, preferably in the wine sector.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the HR MANAGER UK & IRELAND M/F role at Ethic Search Partners, a human resources consulting firm specialising in executive search, recruiting an HR MANAGER UK & IRELAND M/F for one of its clients as part of a replacement. Our client is a luxury French company operating in the retail sector, with a strong presence in the UK and Ireland. Permanent position based in London under local contract terms.
Role Overview
The organisation is entering a phase of HR structuring and transformation, requiring a hands‑on and autonomous HR professional. Reporting directly to the UK & Ireland General Manager, you will be responsible for all HR topics within your scope, covering approximately 160 employees across 20 retail locations and a small local head office. You act as the main HR point of contact for managers and employees, with a strong field presence and a highly operational role combining HR administration, employee relations and people development.
Key Dimensions
- Operational HR management and employee relations
- HR structuring and project development
Responsibilities
- Act as the primary HR contact for managers and employees on all HR matters.
- Manage all employee lifecycle processes: onboarding, contract management, probation follow‑up, exits and disciplinary procedures.
- Ensure compliance with local employment legislation and internal policies.
- Supervise and support one HR Coordinator.
Support to retail management
- Provide day‑to‑day HR support to store managers and operational leaders.
- Support managers in handling people‑related issues and developing their HR and leadership skills.
- Contribute to improving employee engagement and reducing turnover.
Talent development and HR processes
- Support the implementation of performance reviews, people reviews and bonus processes in line with Group guidelines.
- Identify skills gaps and contribute to the development of training and talent initiatives.
- Participate in the structuring of HR processes where little or none currently exist.
HR projects and transformation
- Contribute to HR transformation projects, including the future implementation of HR tools and systems.
- Support organisational changes and evolving ways of working in a family‑owned company and long‑established organisation.
- Actively contribute to building pragmatic and sustainable HR practices.
Regular field presence is required, with visits to stores several times per month. Occasional business travel to France is required.
Profile
You hold a Master’s degree (Business School or equivalent) and have a solid and successful experience as a Commercial or Sales Manager in the wine sector, acquired internationally. A true field professional, you have an in‑depth understanding of the commercial landscape in both France and international markets, along with a strategic view of wine distribution. You are above all a hunter, driven by the conquest of new markets and the creation of business opportunities. You know how to identify and activate growth levers quickly, build long‑term commercial relationships, and lead high‑stakes negotiations. Your entrepreneurial mindset enables you to thrive within a family‑owned group and to manage projects involving multiple stakeholders. Recognized for your leadership, determination, and ability to deliver results, you combine rigor, organisational skills, and a strong business development instinct. You are fluent in English; Italian is a plus.
A member of the A Compétence Égale association, Ethic Search Partners is committed to promoting Diversity and Inclusion and guarantees equal treatment of all applications.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Human Resources
Industries: Retail, Retail Luxury Goods and Jewelry, and Retail Apparel and Fashion
HR MANAGER UK & IRELAND M/F employer: Ethic Search Partners
Ethic Search Partners is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where you can play a pivotal role in shaping HR practices for a prestigious luxury retail brand. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, you will have ample opportunities for professional growth while contributing to meaningful HR transformation projects. Join us to be part of a collaborative team that prioritises operational excellence and employee engagement across 20 retail locations in the UK and Ireland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR MANAGER UK & IRELAND M/F
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at companies you’re interested in. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
If you can, set up informational interviews with HR professionals or managers in your target companies. This is a great way to learn more about the company culture and what they look for in candidates. Plus, it shows your genuine interest and can help you stand out when applying.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience and operational HR skills. Share specific examples of how you've improved employee engagement or streamlined HR processes. We want to see your impact!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you that HR Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace HR MANAGER UK & IRELAND M/F
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in operational HR management and employee relations, as well as any specific projects you've led that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your hands-on approach and how you can contribute to HR structuring and transformation within the company.
Showcase Your Field Experience:Since this role requires regular field presence, make sure to emphasise your experience in retail environments. Share examples of how you've supported managers and employees in similar settings to demonstrate your operational expertise.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people quickly and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ethic Search Partners
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your HR knowledge, especially around employee lifecycle processes and local employment legislation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're ready to take on the operational HR management role.
✨Showcase Your Field Experience
Since this role requires a strong field presence, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully supported managers and employees in previous positions. Highlight any specific situations where your hands-on approach made a difference.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Skills
The company is looking for someone who can contribute to HR transformation projects. Be ready to discuss any relevant projects you've managed, focusing on your ability to implement new systems or processes and how you navigated challenges along the way.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Qualities
As a potential HR Manager, you'll need to exhibit strong leadership skills. Prepare to talk about how you've developed others' HR and leadership skills in the past, and how you plan to foster employee engagement and reduce turnover in this new role.
