At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Senior People Partners and manage employee relations cases from day one.
- Company: Join OakNorth, a fast-paced company making a real impact in the community.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, competitive salary, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Perfect for those eager to learn and grow in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and shape the future of people management.
- Qualifications: HR experience and knowledge of UK employment law are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
OakNorth has lent over $21 billion, helped create 58,000 homes and 36,000 jobs since 2015. We move fast, think commercially, and build things that last. Now we're looking for a Junior People Partner to grow with us.
This is a hands-on generalist position sitting within a lean, high-performing People Team. You'll support Senior People Partners across UK and US employee populations — handling real ER cases, contributing to people projects, and partnering directly with managers from day one. No busy work; genuine exposure.
What you'll do:
- Own ER cases end-to-end — managing documentation, advising managers, and escalating where needed.
- Support day-to-day partnering across UK and US populations, including performance, probation, and organisational change.
- Contribute to People Team projects and cyclical processes (e.g., performance reviews, engagement, workforce planning), supporting research, coordination, documentation, and delivery.
- Produce people data reporting (e.g., headcount, attrition, ER trends, engagement and performance), preparing clear summaries to support People Partner decision-making.
- Bring an AI-first mindset — using tools to streamline project delivery and reporting, improving scalability and the overall employee experience.
What we're looking for:
- HR experience in a fast-paced or high-growth environment.
- Solid ER experience managing complex cases with confidence.
- Strong working knowledge of UK employment law; US exposure is a plus.
- Commercially minded, organised, and comfortable with data and HRIS systems.
- CIPD qualified or working towards it (or equivalent experience).
Desirable:
- HiBob experience, financial services background, proven use of AI tools to redesign people processes.
You'll be great if you…
- Get energised by variety — no two days looking the same doesn't faze you, it motivates you.
- Can hold a difficult conversation with care and confidence, and know when to escape.
- Think beyond process — you're curious about the why behind people decisions, not just the what.
- Are comfortable with ambiguity and find your own way to structure and prioritise.
- Spot a smarter way of doing something and actually do something about it.
- Want to build a career in People, not just fill a role.
If you're early in your People career and want broad exposure, real responsibility, and room to grow — we'd like to hear from you.
Junior People Partner in London employer: OakNorth Bank plc
At OakNorth, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through personalised benefits, extensive wellbeing initiatives, and opportunities for professional development, all set against the backdrop of our vibrant London office. Join us in making a meaningful impact as we empower businesses and communities while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior People Partner in London
✨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 OakNorth Bank plc!
✨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 OakNorth Bank plc.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior People Partner in London
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 OakNorth Bank plc. 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 OakNorth Bank plc 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 OakNorth Bank plc. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to OakNorth Bank plc'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 OakNorth Bank plc
✨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 OakNorth Bank plc.
✨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 OakNorth Bank plc 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 OakNorth Bank plc and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
