HR Assistant, UK & Ireland

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:

We are looking for an HR Assistant to provide efficient and professional HR support for both Head Office and Retail associates across the UK and Ireland. You will support the New Balance Associates across Retail and Head Office teams, offering administrative support to HR Operations. A large part of this role involves maintaining data on our HR system (Workday). The ideal candidate will be highly organized, able to work at pace, and manage deadlines successfully.

This role is based 3 days a week at our EMEA Head Office in Warrington, UK. We offer hybrid working and flexible hours to promote work-life balance.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Provide administrative support for HR topics, including creating new contracts, updating new starter forms, conducting background reference checks, right to work checks, and updating emergency contact information.
• Support the entire employee lifecycle, including changes and offboarding.
• Maintain HR System (Workday), ensure associate files are accurate, run HR reports, and support payroll processing via external companies.
• Assist Store Managers with recruitment activities—advertise vacancies, collate applications, and arrange interviews.
• Update all trackers accurately.
• Archive personnel and recruitment files in line with GDPR legislation.
• Assess sickness and absence trends, ensuring accurate recording by each Store.
• Provide advice on local employment laws and stay updated on changes.
• Support the wider EMEA HR Team with administrative tasks and escalate queries as needed.
• Contribute to relevant projects.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• Degree-level education, preferably in HR or related field.
• Previous HR experience in a similar role is advantageous.
• Good understanding of UK and Irish employment law.
• Strong interest in HR operations.
• Results-driven with the ability to follow through on projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organized with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and own your work.
• Experience handling confidential information.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Experience with HR systems is preferred; proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential.
• Team player—professional, friendly, and open with associates.

BENEFITS:

• Discretionary Bonus
• Private Medical Insurance
• Dental Scheme
• Pension Scheme
• Flexible Working Hours (07:00 – 10:00 start, 15:00 -18:00 finish)
• Hybrid working (3 days on-site)
• 25 days annual leave
• Life Insurance
• On-site Gym
• Employee Discount
• Opportunity to work abroad for four weeks per year
• Wellbeing and Mental Health Support (24/7 Employee Assistance Program)

Equal Opportunity Employer:

New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, maternity, marriage, civil partnership, or gender reassignment. We support diversity and inclusion and will make necessary adjustments for applicants who require support.

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