Human Resources Advisor

We are looking for an HR Advisor to join us on a permanent basis. You will play a key role in delivering proactive, end to end HR support, working closely with the HRBPs (HR Business Partners) in providing support across our fee earning and business services departments on the full spectrum of HR services. This is a hands-on and varied role in a collaborative team of 10. You will enjoy a varied workload ranging from handling day-to-day employee relations matters to collaborating with the HRBPs on strategic HR initiatives and project work.

Main responsibilities

• Acting as a trusted advisor for managers and employees on a wide range of HR matters, including:

• Independently handling routine ER issues, as well as supporting HRBPs on more complex ER matters (note taking, investigation and document support);
• Managing complex maternity and other family leave processes, before and after return, advice on policies, arranging coaching and re-integration plans, preparing associated paperwork, etc;
• Managing flexible working requests, discussing proposals with managers, and other changes to work patterns;
• Conducting exit interviews and analysis of exit interview data;
• Managing probation extensions and similar scheduled performance check-ins; supporting managers with capability conversations as required;
• Managing sickness absence, including pay-related discussions, OH referrals, return to work meetings, phased return to work planning, etc;
• HR data analysis and reporting across key people metrics, including sickness absence trends, probation and performance review outcomes, tenure and attrition, identifying themes, risks and improvement opportunities and escalating insights to HRBPs;
• Managing contractual changes and associated paperwork;
• Proactive management of fixed term contracts, flagging end dates, discussing extensions and agreeing term;
• Contributing to the review, development and implementation of HR policies and best practice guidance;
• Supporting with the annual consultants review process, including drafting relevant letters;
• Actively engaging in firm-wide DEI, wellbeing and responsible business initiatives;
• Any other reasonable HR-related duties as required.

About you

• Ideally, you will be able to demonstrate:

• Proven relevant previous experience, ideally gained with legal/professional services;
• Strong listening and problem-solving skills, with the ability to provide pragmatic, commercially aware HR advice;
• Excellent interpersonal, organisational and administrative skills; attention to detail is critical;
• An enthusiastic and proactive approach with the confidence to manage a varied HR caseload independently;
• The desire to work in a collaborative team, supporting others when required.

At Howard Kennedy we believe that everyone deserves the space to thrive. We’re committed to creating an inclusive recruitment experience that reflects the diversity of both our people and our clients. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, and we’re committed to ensuring that our recruitment process is fair, transparent, and accessible to all.