At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR initiatives and provide high-level advice on employee relations.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Hertfordshire County Council, shaping the future of local services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a transformative journey in local government reorganisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in HR while navigating exciting organisational changes.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR, strong communication skills, and a CIPD qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Stevenage
Contract Type: Permanent
Directorate: Resources
About The Team
We are seeking an experienced HR Officer to join our dynamic Adult Care Services Business Partner Team. This role is ideal for a seasoned HR professional who is passionate about delivering exceptional support and driving HR initiatives. We are looking for a diligent and detail‑oriented individual who has a keen eye for ensuring all tasks are completed accurately and efficiently. The ideal candidate will be reliable and dependable, consistently meeting deadlines and following through on commitments. A strong work ethic is essential, demonstrating dedication, perseverance, and a proactive approach to problem‑solving. You will have the ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions. Strong interpersonal skills are key, along with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with colleagues and the service you support. Adaptability is important, as the role requires comfort with change and the ability to adjust to new situations and challenges. Analytical thinking is necessary for making informed decisions and providing strategic insights based on HR data. Maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with care is vital. The ideal candidate will be a team player, supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive team environment, while also being able to work autonomously, managing their own workload and making decisions with minimal supervision.
About The Role
You will need to be highly organised, resilient, and capable of managing multiple priorities. The key responsibilities include:
- Support the Senior HR Officer and HR Manager to ensure the team works collaboratively to meet the needs of the service.
- Provide high‑level advice on Employee Relations matters (e.g., ill health, disciplinary, performance capability, probation and grievance).
- Assist with Organisational Change initiatives (e.g., restructures, TUPE).
- Contribute to the development and execution of workforce strategies, collaborating with finance and data teams.
- Support managers and teams with performance management and direct them to the HR Service Desk, as necessary.
- Drive continuous improvement in HR services provided to directorates.
About You
Essential:
- Experience in HR, with a strong understanding of employee relations, organisational change, and employment law.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Proven ability to manage complex HR projects and provide strategic HR support.
- CIPD qualification or equivalent work‑based experience.
- Demonstrated track record of delivering high‑quality customer service and advising managers on HR best practices.
- Experience in ER case management and a thorough understanding of employment and equalities legislation.
Desirable:
- CIPD qualification.
Benefits of working for us
Benefits details are available upon request.
How To Apply
As part of your application, please upload your most recent CV. Ensure your CV is up to date with your employment history (including any employment gaps) and includes any training/qualifications. We encourage you to include examples of where you have demonstrated the requirements/criteria in the advert/job profile to allow the panel to fully recognise your skills and abilities. You will have the opportunity to include a short covering paragraph within your application to give us a little more information about your skills, knowledge, and experiences.
Additional Information
We are changing. Hertfordshire County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). If you are employed by Hertfordshire County on 1 April 2028, it is expected that most roles will transfer to the newly‑created unitary councils on existing terms and conditions under TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings – Protection of Employment) principles. LGR is one of the biggest changes we will face in a generation. It will reshape how we work and how services are organised and gives us a real opportunity to build something better.
Disability Confident
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to anyone disclosing a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
English Fluency
The ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.
Contact: Helen Southwell or Kelly Delaney for an informal discussion about the role.
HR Officer - BP in Stevenage employer: Hertfordshire County Council
Hertfordshire County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth. With competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and a commitment to employee development, this role in Stevenage provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in pensions governance while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
Contact Details:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Officer - BP in Stevenage
✨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 Hertfordshire County Council!
✨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.
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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 Hertfordshire County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Officer - BP in Stevenage
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 Hertfordshire County Council. 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 Hertfordshire County Council 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 Hertfordshire County Council. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hertfordshire County Council'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 Hertfordshire County Council
✨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 Hertfordshire County Council.
✨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 Hertfordshire County Council 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 Hertfordshire County Council and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
