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- Tasks: Support the Chief People Officer and oversee daily HR operations.
- Company: Join a purpose-led asset manager in the heart of London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative team environment and meaningful work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your HR skills in a supportive setting.
- Qualifications: Experience as an HR Manager, ideally in financial services, with strong employee relations skills.
- Other info: This is a 12-month maternity cover role starting mid-August 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
HR Manager (12-Month FTC – Maternity Cover – Start Date Mid-August 2025)
A distinctive, purpose-led asset manager based in the heart of the City is seeking a confident and capable HR Manager to join on a 12-month maternity cover contract, reporting directly to the Chief People Officer. This is a great opportunity to help guide a well-established and values-driven investment firm – translating strategic people initiatives into smooth, effective execution, all with the support of a highly capable and collaborative HR team.
With business-as-usual currently in a steady rhythm, you’ll have the space to immerse yourself in the organisation, build strong relationships across the business, and make a meaningful contribution from day one. Your focus will be on bridging strategy and operations: ensuring key initiatives are delivered thoughtfully, day-to-day HR processes run efficiently, and managers receive the insight and support they need.
You’ll play a visible and trusted role across the organisation – acting as a key point of contact for leaders and line managers, and providing thoughtful oversight and guidance across the HR function.
Key Responsibilities:- Act as right-hand support to the Chief People Officer, helping to deliver strategic HR priorities
- Provide oversight of day-to-day HR operations – supporting the team across payroll, recruitment, onboarding, systems, and compliance
- Own employee relations matters, handling complex or sensitive issues with care and confidence
- Be the first point of contact for people managers and department heads, offering guidance on HR matters including performance, conduct, and policy
- Support the annual performance and compensation cycle – reviews begin in February, with comp running March to May
- Deliver insights to ExCo on people trends, SMCR matters, and HR metrics
- Help embed and improve the new HR system (implemented last year) and contribute to ongoing process enhancements
- Work closely with a stable and collaborative HR team (5 total) and ensure a consistent, high-quality service across the function
- Proven experience operating at HR Manager level, ideally within investment management, asset management, or broader financial services
- Strong employee relations experience – essential for success in this role
- Ability to translate strategy into tactical execution
- Familiarity with regulated environments, SMCR, and working with senior leadership
- High emotional intelligence and communication skills – able to engage at every level of the organisation
- A proactive mindset – you’re comfortable stepping into the unknown, identifying gaps, and keeping things moving
- Ideally CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent experience)
HR Manager – 12 month mat cover employer: Oakleaf
Contact Detail:
Oakleaf Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Manager – 12 month mat cover
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the investment management and asset management sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with HR leaders and gain insights into the specific challenges they face, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in HR technology and compliance, especially related to SMCR. Being knowledgeable about these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with employee relations in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully handled complex issues, as this will be crucial for the role and will show your capability to manage sensitive situations effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s values and culture thoroughly. Understanding their mission and how they operate will allow you to align your responses during interviews, showcasing that you are a good fit for their team and can contribute positively from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Manager – 12 month mat cover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant HR experience, particularly in investment management or financial services. Emphasise your employee relations skills and any experience with strategic HR initiatives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your ability to translate strategy into execution and your experience in handling complex employee relations matters.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience, make it prominent in your application. This qualification is essential for the role and should be clearly stated.
Showcase Soft Skills: Given the emphasis on emotional intelligence and communication skills in the job description, provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with various levels of an organisation in your previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakleaf
✨Understand the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to research the company's values and culture. This will help you align your answers with what they are looking for in a candidate, especially since they emphasise being a purpose-led organisation.
✨Prepare for Employee Relations Scenarios
Given the importance of employee relations in this role, think of specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully handled complex HR issues. Be ready to discuss these scenarios in detail during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
The role requires translating strategy into execution. Prepare to discuss how you've previously implemented HR strategies and the impact they had on the organisation. Use metrics or outcomes to illustrate your success.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Since high emotional intelligence is crucial for this position, be prepared to share examples of how you've effectively communicated and engaged with various levels of staff. Highlight your ability to build relationships and support managers in HR matters.
