People Partner

People Partner

Full-Time 65000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
National Energy System Operator

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive HR initiatives and enhance employee engagement in a collaborative environment.
  • Company: Join NESO, a leader in sustainable energy transformation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, flexible working, and generous leave.
  • Other info: Embrace a dynamic role with opportunities for growth and inclusivity.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of clean energy while shaping workplace culture.
  • Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 and experience in strategic HR partnerships required.

The predicted salary is between 65000 - 75000 £ per year.

National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) strength lies in our people. Together, we’re shaping the future where clean, affordable energy is accessible for all. Every day is an opportunity to make a real difference, accelerating the progress of sustainable GB energy, keeping people connected and society thriving as we create a brighter tomorrow.

The People Partner at National Energy System Operator (NESO) is a vital member of our People team, driving strategic HR initiatives that align with our organizational goals. We are seeking an experienced People professional who is passionate about fostering a collaborative workplace culture and enhancing employee engagement. You will partner closely with business leaders, acting as a strategic advisor to provide expert HR guidance and support, ensuring that our people strategies are effectively implemented across the organization.

In this exciting role, you will leverage external market insights and internal data to support strategic workforce planning and enhance the employee experience. As a trusted advisor to senior leaders, you will play a key role in facilitating effective communication, providing insight, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the business. Your ability to translate people data into meaningful actions will be essential as we navigate our transformation journey. You’ll work closely with leaders to shape a positive, inclusive workplace culture that supports performance, engagement, and growth, ensuring NESO remains a great place to work as we define our identity and ways of working.

This role can is based in Warwick, and we continue to offer hybrid working from office and home. We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements.

Key Accountabilities

  • Collaborating with business leaders to develop and implement People strategies that support organisational objectives and enhance employee experience.
  • Leading the execution of the performance management strategy, working in partnership with the Organisation Culture team to embed and monitor a high-performance culture aligned with business goals.
  • Providing expert advice on employee relations matters, including conflict resolution and compliance with People policies and legislation.
  • Using external market insights to inform workforce planning and drive employee engagement initiatives.
  • Delivering strategic workforce planning (SWP) solutions that align with business needs and enhance operational effectiveness.
  • Analysing workforce data and trends to identify staffing needs, optimise talent allocation, and plan for future workforce skills requirements.
  • Interpreting people data to identify root causes of issues and provide actionable insights that inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.
  • Supporting line managers, line manage a People Consultant and partner with Centres of Expertise (CoEs) to influence the development and implementation of key people strategies.
  • Partnering with the People Operations team to ensure the effective delivery of People services, including recruitment, onboarding, and employee lifecycle management.
  • Implementing and managing performance appraisal processes, providing coaching and support to managers in delivering feedback and conducting evaluations.
  • Identifying training needs and coordinate professional development programmes to enhance employee skills, capability, and career growth.
  • Using People metrics and analytics to assess the effectiveness of initiatives, providing insights to inform future planning and decision-making.
  • Championing improvements in line with NESO’s strategic goals, ensuring people initiatives are aligned with organisational priorities.
  • Fostering a positive workplace culture by promoting employee engagement initiatives, diversity and inclusion efforts, and recognition programmes.
  • Acting as a trusted advisor to employees, promoting a positive workplace culture and addressing tier 2/3 People-related queries and concerns.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Visa sponsorship may not be available for this role and will be considered in line with business requirements.

About You

We’re forging the path, and we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why we need visionary minds like yours to join us on this transformative journey. In this case, we’re looking for someone who has/is:

  • CIPD Level 7.
  • Extensive experience partnering with senior business leaders to shape and deliver people strategies that drive organisational performance, support transformation, and enhance the employee experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence and support senior leaders, using insight, challenge, and collaboration to shape people strategies that drive business performance.
  • Strong analytical and commercial acumen, with the ability to interpret complex People and workforce data, identify root causes, and translate insights into impactful, evidence-based actions.
  • Experience in workforce planning and organisational design, leveraging external market insights and internal trends to anticipate future needs and optimise talent deployment.
  • A confident communicator and relationship builder, able to engage, coach, and influence stakeholders at all levels with credibility and empathy.
  • A champion of culture, inclusion, and engagement, with a track record of delivering initiatives that enhance the employee experience and contribute to a positive, values-led workplace.
  • Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment, with the ability to balance strategic thinking and hands-on delivery to meet business needs.

What You'll Get

A competitive salary of £65,000 - £75,000 dependent on experience and capability. As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus of up to 15% of your salary for stretch performance, 28 days annual leave as standard, and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. NESO's flexible benefits programme provides you with more flexibility around your health, lifestyle and protection benefits.

About Us

At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we play a vital role in tackling climate change and securing Great Britain's energy future. We already operate the world's fastest decarbonising electricity system and are working towards our ambition to run it carbon-free for a short period this year - provided the market supplies electricity exclusively from renewable sources. Alongside this, we provide expert advice to government on how to deliver a clean power system by 2030.

In autumn 2024, the Electricity System Operator (ESO) transitioned to become NESO - an independent, expert public corporation with a whole-system view across electricity, gas, and hydrogen. NESO operates independently and transparently, always acting in the best interests of all energy users. Licensed and regulated by Ofgem, we make impartial decisions that balance sustainability, affordability and security. Our organisation is fully independent from government, the regulator and all commercial interests, with a clear focus on system-wide benefit, long term thinking and public value.

The time to deliver is now. Join the energy transformation and help shape the future. Your energy. Our future. Together.

National Energy System Operator (NESO) recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

More Information

This role closes at 23:59, on the day before date shown above, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary. Research shows that some people may hesitate to apply unless they meet every single requirement. At NESO, we believe potential comes in many forms and we're committed to a fair, inclusive recruitment process where everyone has the opportunity to show their talents. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.

People Partner employer: National Energy System Operator

The National Energy System Operator is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Warwick that fosters collaboration and innovation in the energy sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits, including bonuses and a pension scheme, this role not only provides meaningful work in regulatory law but also supports your professional growth in a vital industry focused on sustainability.

National Energy System Operator

Contact Details:

National Energy System Operator Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land People Partner

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 National Energy System Operator!

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 National Energy System Operator.

We think you need these skills to ace People Partner

CIPD Level 7
Strategic HR Initiatives
Employee Engagement
Workforce Planning
Data Analysis
Performance Management
Conflict Resolution

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 National Energy System Operator. 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 National Energy System Operator 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 National Energy System Operator. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.

Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to National Energy System Operator'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 National Energy System Operator

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 National Energy System Operator.

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 National Energy System Operator 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 National Energy System Operator and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.