At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR strategy and coach leaders to enhance people management.
- Company: Join Network Rail High Speed, the UK's premier high-speed railway operator.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, pension schemes, travel discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on HR practices in a dynamic, high-speed environment.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified or relevant HR experience with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 43588 - 53167 £ per year.
Network Rail High Speed Ltd. (NRHS) is responsible for operating and maintaining the UK's only international high-speed railway (HS1) owned by London St. Pancras Highspeed. The 109km London St. Pancras Highspeed infrastructure consists of a diverse range of railway assets such as the track, signalling, overhead line, lineside buildings, depots, viaducts and long tunnels. NRHS is also responsible for operating and maintaining three international stations; St Pancras, Stratford and Ebbsfleet International.
As a wholly owned subsidiary of Network Rail Infrastructure Ltd, NRHS is privately financed under an agreement with our client London St. Pancras Highspeed, undertaking a diverse range of activities from railway infrastructure maintenance and operations to station facilities management and retail on behalf of our client. Our Vision is to deliver the best High Speed rail customer experience.
Duration: Permanent
Salary range: £43,588 - £53,167 plus outer London allowance of £1,940 per annum
In addition to the above, we can offer you a rewarding career with excellent benefits, including:
- Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days) with the option to buy/sell days.
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
- Up to 75% off leisure travel.
- Interest‑free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
- Discounts at some stations with your Network Rail pass.
- Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
- Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
- Healthcare scheme, GymPass discounts, cycle to work scheme - plus more.
- Generous maternity, paternity and adoption leave to support our employees during significant life moments.
We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work‑life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our safety vision.
To work with the supported business leadership team, under the direction of the Head/Senior HR Business Partner to deliver the business aligned People Plan/HR strategy and provide coaching and support to members of the supported leadership team.
Key Accountabilities:
- Working closely with the supported business, to implement and deliver the HR Strategy/People Plan to include talent, succession planning and change management, in order to support the delivery of business objectives and drive a high performance culture.
- Work closely and build strong relationships with members of the supported business senior leadership team and other relevant stakeholders.
- Coach, advise and challenge, where appropriate, business leaders on short and medium term HR issues as required.
- Provide operational HR support on organisation change, senior appointments, salary and bonus, graduate or apprentice programmes.
- Successfully deliver client responsive, cost effective and integrated people solutions that address key business objectives, gaining acceptance from key stakeholders.
- Reinforce the ownership of people management by the business and line managers and support the HR delivery model.
- Work with the broader HR function, including Centres of expertise, HR Direct and HR shared services teams to provide the best solutions for the business.
- Work with appropriate Union representatives to support the business in delivering business solutions.
- Liaise with HR Business Partners in other areas of the business in order to work collaboratively on cross business/geographical issues.
Our aim is to ensure your candidate experience is as positive as possible. If you require reasonable adjustments at any point, simply let us know and we'll do our best to assist you. Some of our roles require face to face Drugs & Alcohol testing. We will share further details with you as part of your formal offer.
Demonstrates strong business/commercial approach and understanding of business needs. Proven experience of working in partnership and building strong working relationships with senior managers in order to improve people management. Passionate about customer service with ability to articulate previous achievements through business deliverables. Knowledge and experience of implementing best practice HR solutions to drive a high performance culture. Experience of coaching and influencing senior managers. Excellent communication skills and ability to negotiate and influence effectively with all levels of an organisation. Understands how to work with the business to identify, develop and retain talent. Excellent technical HR knowledge - CIPD qualified or relevant experience to demonstrate level of competence. Proven track record of operating in a complex working environment. Graduate calibre. Understanding of project management principles and experience of managing complex projects to successful conclusion. Experience of managing projects to successful conclusion. Experience of working within a unionised environment.
Key Information:
- Number of Positions: 1
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Hours: Full Time
- Location: Singlewell (High Speed), Gravesend
- Closing Date: 29-SEP-2026
- Job Category: HR and Legal
- Function: Southern Region
- Organisation: CT HR NR (High Speed) Ltd - Human Resources
Human Resources Business Partner [High Speed] in Gravesend employer: NETWORK RAIL
Network Rail is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to vital infrastructure projects in the UK. The supportive culture and commitment to maintaining accurate data ensure that your role as a Data & SharePoint Support Specialist is both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Business Partner [High Speed] in Gravesend
✨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 NETWORK RAIL!
✨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 NETWORK RAIL.
We think you need these skills to ace Human Resources Business Partner [High Speed] in Gravesend
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 NETWORK RAIL. 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 NETWORK RAIL 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 NETWORK RAIL. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to NETWORK RAIL'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 NETWORK RAIL
✨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 NETWORK RAIL.
✨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 NETWORK RAIL 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 NETWORK RAIL and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
