At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape HR processes and support leaders in a dynamic engineering environment.
- Company: Established British engineering business focused on growth and people development.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid working, and direct access to senior leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity for hands-on involvement and career growth in a high-performance culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on HR strategy and employee experience in a fast-paced setting.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with 5+ years of HR experience, including HRBP level.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Interim HR Business Partner (6-Month Contract)
Location: Northampton (Hybrid – 2–3 days per week in the office)
Day Rate: £350–£400/day
Sector: Engineering
Our client is an established, high-performing British engineering business, investing in the people infrastructure required to support its next stage of growth. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a developing HR function, with direct access to senior leadership and a clear mandate to improve how the business attracts, manages, and supports its people.
This is a hands-on, commercially minded generalist role, working closely with the senior leadership team. You will operate at both strategic and transactional levels building structure, improving process, and keeping delivery moving in a fast-paced environment.
The Role
You will own and deliver across four core areas:
- End-to-end HR processes: design, build and improve people processes across the full employee lifecycle (hire to exit).
- HR policy & governance: develop, implement, and maintain HR policy aligned to UK employment law and best practice.
- Full-cycle recruitment: lead recruitment from brief through to offer, partnering closely with hiring managers.
- Day-to-day people support: provide practical, proactive HR support to leaders and managers, including employee relations case management.
You will also help build the foundations for better people decisions through metrics, systems and reporting.
What we are looking for:
- CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum; Level 7 preferred)
- 5+ years HR experience, including 3+ years at HRBP / HR Manager level
- Strong UK employment law and policy capability (creation + maintenance)
- Hands-on employee relations experience (disciplinary, grievance, absence, performance)
- Proven process improvement track record (templates, workflows, HR systems from the ground up)
- Confident communicator who can coach and influence managers with a pragmatic, human approach
Desirable Experience
- TUPE, restructuring and/or HRIS implementation
- Background in engineering, manufacturing, or a comparable high-performance technical environment
Human Resources Business Partner in Kettering employer: Grafton Recruitment
As an established British engineering business, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values its people and fosters a collaborative work culture. With a focus on employee growth and development, we offer unique opportunities to shape the HR function while working closely with senior leadership in a hybrid environment. Our commitment to investing in our workforce ensures that you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to driving meaningful change and supporting our next stage of growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Business Partner in Kettering
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Grafton Recruitment and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Human Resources Business Partner in Kettering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Grafton Recruitment. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Grafton Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Grafton Recruitment, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Grafton Recruitment uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Grafton Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Grafton Recruitment.
