At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, manage employee relations, and oversee recruitment processes.
- Company: Established organisation in Oxford with a supportive work culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days holiday, pension scheme, and free onsite parking.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR while making a real impact on a diverse workforce.
- Qualifications: Experience as an HR Manager or strong HR Generalist ready for management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
Hays are delighted to be working on a rare HR Manager opportunity to join a well-established organisation in Oxford, working closely with the Head of HR to deliver a high-quality, proactive HR service across a diverse workforce.
About the Role
This is true HR Generalist role, combining day-to-day operational leadership of the team, leading on all aspects of the employee lifecycle including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, policy and procedure updates and project support. Working closely with the Head of HR this role will help to shape the HR function for the future. This is a brand new role and would suit an established HR Manager that has worked in a small HR Function.
You’ll take ownership of:
- Employee relations casework
- Recruitment oversight and delivery
- HR operational processes and service standards
- Supporting wider HR projects and system improvements
You’ll also lead a small HR team, ensuring consistency, efficiency and high-quality service across the function.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, sickness absence, harassment and performance issues, ensuring a fair, consistent and legally compliant approach.
- Oversee absence management processes, including the monitoring and analysis of absence trends, supporting employee wellbeing initiatives and the effective management of long-term and short-term absence cases.
- Review and improve HR processes and workflows, implementing change where required, and develop Standard Operating Procedures and service standards to ensure the consistent delivery of HR services.
- Support the Head of HR with policy development, staff surveys, exit interview analysis and the implementation of HR initiatives, ensuring policies are applied consistently.
- Supervise the recruitment and selection process for support staff and academic appointments, providing advice and support to the HR team and ensuring all recruitment activity is managed in a professional and timely manner.
- Manage the appointment process from advertising through to onboarding, including participation in selection interviews, approval of offers and contracts, pre-employment checks, right to work, DBS and visa compliance, and staff induction.
- Oversee recruitment reporting and monitoring, including equality data, recruitment effectiveness, and the provision of advice on recruitment, right to work and employment compliance matters.
- Line manage a team of two, inspiring the team to be creative, seek excellence and take pride in their work.
About You
- Proven experience as a HR Manager OR a strong HR Generalist / Senior HR Advisor ready to step up into management.
- Employee Relations experience up to dismissal and up to date UK employment Law knowledge.
- CIPD Level 5 is advantageous.
- Strong generalist HR knowledge across the employee lifecycle and operational excellence.
- Confidence working with stakeholders and influencing decision-making.
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach.
- The ability to provide guidance and coaching to your own team.
Package & Benefits
- £50,000 - £55,000
- 30 days holiday + bank holidays
- Generous pension scheme
- Cycle to work & electric car schemes
- Season ticket loans
- Free Onsite parking available - first come first serve basis
Human Resources Manager in Oxford employer: Hays HR
Join a premium retail organisation that values innovation and growth, offering a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly shape the future of talent acquisition. With generous pay and benefits, alongside long-term development opportunities, this role is perfect for those eager to build impactful recruitment strategies in a luxury retail setting. Experience a culture that prioritises professional excellence and inclusivity, ensuring every candidate interaction reflects the high standards of the brand.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Manager in Oxford
✨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 Hays HR!
✨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 Hays HR.
We think you need these skills to ace Human Resources Manager in Oxford
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 Hays HR. 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 Hays HR 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 Hays HR. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hays HR'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 Hays HR
✨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 Hays HR.
✨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 Hays HR 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 Hays HR and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
