At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR processes and provide top-notch assistance to colleagues in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading firm in Manchester with a commitment to innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop your skills, and enjoy a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in exciting HR projects.
- Why this job: Be the first point of contact for HR queries and make a real difference in employee experience.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly motivated and customer-focused HR Services Assistant to join our HR Services team based in Manchester. This is a front-line role, providing essential support and guidance to colleagues across the firm. You will play a key part in coordinating new joiner activities and managing a broad range of HR queries and processes, including onboarding, pre-employment checks, performance management, secondments, leavers, retirements, long service awards, and contract renewals. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a passion for delivering high-quality HR support and a proactive approach to process improvement and technology adoption.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the first point of contact for HR-related enquiries via telephone, email, and online platforms, ensuring timely and professional resolution.
- Provide transactional processing and administrative support across core HR processes.
- Prepare external correspondence including employment references, mortgage/rental confirmations, and business visa letters.
- Maintain and update HR documentation in line with legislative and policy changes.
- Ensure accurate data entry and maintenance within the firm’s HR system (Workday) and other filing systems.
- Build strong working relationships with HR colleagues and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
- Identify and implement opportunities to streamline HR processes and enhance service delivery.
- Support HR projects focused on automation and AI-driven enhancements to improve administrative efficiency and employee experience.
Key Requirements
Essential:
- Proven customer service experience in a professional or commercial setting.
- Strong communication skills and a commitment to delivering prompt and effective support.
- Team-oriented mindset with a focus on achieving shared goals and KPIs.
- Proactive approach to continuous improvement and openness to adopting new technologies.
- Interest in process optimisation and innovation.
Desirable:
- Previous experience in a shared services HR environment.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent.
- Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel, and familiarity with database systems.
- Experience using HR technology platforms, ideally Workday.
- Interest or experience in supporting AI-driven systems or automation initiatives within HR.
Inclusion
Freshfields is an equal opportunities employer and all applications received by the firm will be considered by the firm on the basis of their merit alone and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background. All offers of employment will be conditional on the candidate having/securing the right to work in the UK and providing the firm with evidence of that right (as required by the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006) prior to employment commencing. Freshfields is a Ban the Box employer. We ask applicants to disclose criminal convictions only when a conditional job offer is made. A conviction does not automatically lead to withdrawal of the offer: we make decisions on a case by case basis and take a number of factors into account (eg the role you are applying for and the circumstances of the offence). You would have the opportunity to discuss the matter with us before we make a decision.
HR Services Assistant - 12m FTC in Manchester employer: Freshfields
Freshfields is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Change Delivery Manager, you will be at the forefront of transformative projects, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a global network. The firm fosters a culture of inclusivity and support, ensuring that every employee can contribute meaningfully while enjoying a balanced work-life experience in a prestigious setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Services Assistant - 12m FTC in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the company through LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the HR Services Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common HR scenarios. Think about how you would handle onboarding or resolving HR queries. This will show your proactive approach and customer service skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech-savvy side! Familiarise yourself with Workday and other HR technologies. Mention any relevant experience during interviews to highlight your readiness for process optimisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Services Assistant - 12m FTC in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Customer Service Skills:Since this role is all about providing top-notch support, make sure to highlight your customer service experience. We want to see how you've gone above and beyond to help others in previous roles.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the key responsibilities and requirements mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who really understand what we’re looking for.
Be Proactive About Process Improvement:We’re keen on candidates who have a proactive approach to improving processes. Share examples of how you’ve identified inefficiencies and implemented changes in past roles. It shows us you’re ready to hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Freshfields
✨Know Your HR Basics
Brush up on key HR processes like onboarding, performance management, and contract renewals. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your understanding of the role and impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you provided excellent customer service. Highlight how you resolved issues promptly and effectively, as this is crucial for the HR Services Assistant role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Workday
If you have experience with HR technology platforms, especially Workday, make sure to mention it. If not, do a bit of research to understand its functionalities, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach to learning new technologies.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Be ready to discuss how you've worked in teams before and contributed to shared goals. This role requires a team-oriented mindset, so sharing specific examples will help you stand out as a collaborative candidate.