HR Business Partner - 18 month fixed term contract in Christchurch

Solent Group works with a diverse portfolio of Retailers and supplies bespoke products within various categories, including Health & Beauty, Household Impulse Snacking, and Reusable Bags. We are proud to be best-in-class when it comes to own-label product innovation. Our Categories are fast-paced with ever-evolving trends and a host of ground-breaking products coming to market on a regular basis - we add value to retailers by leading and owning each category.

Here at Solent, we want people to be extraordinary. We pride ourselves on creating and producing amazing products and brands for our Global Customers. You will be joining a company with offices globally across South Africa, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Vietnam, and the UK.

Location: Hybrid (2-3 days per week in Christchurch, Dorset)

About the Role

We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is forward-thinking, personable, and has the drive to develop, as they will be involved in all aspects of Recruitment and HR across the UK, with exposure to the SA & Asia teams. You will be fundamental to the People & Culture department in all aspects of People to ensure we deliver a culture and office environment that represents Solent and our values. This is a varied role where you will have the opportunity to expand your knowledge in all areas of HR, Recruitment, and Office management to effectively support the business.

Key Accountabilities

• Strategic HR Leadership: Collaborating with management to develop and implement HR strategies aligned with business objectives; providing insight and expertise on organisational design, workforce planning, and talent management initiatives; proactively identifying opportunities to enhance employee engagement, retention, and productivity.
• Employee Relations and Performance Management: Advising managers on employee relations issues, including disciplinary actions, grievances, and performance improvement plans; conducting investigations and resolving workplace conflicts in accordance with company policies and legal requirements; supporting the performance management process, including goal setting, performance evaluations, and coaching for improvement.
• Talent Acquisition and Development: Working with the Talent Acquisition Partner to identify staffing needs and develop effective recruitment strategies; participating in the selection process, including interviewing candidates and assessing cultural fit; facilitating onboarding and orientation programs to ensure a smooth transition for new hires.
• HR Policy and Compliance: Ensuring compliance with employment legislation and regulatory requirements; reviewing and updating HR policies and procedures to reflect best practices and promote a positive work environment; providing guidance on HR-related matters, including employment law, equal opportunities, and diversity initiatives.
• HR Analytics and Reporting: Utilising HR data and analytics to inform decision-making and measure the effectiveness of HR programs; generating regular reports on key HR metrics, trends, and insights to drive continuous improvement.
• Employee Lifecycle: Identifying areas for improvement and recommending solutions to enhance HR processes and practices; owning the employee lifecycle from recruiting to probation to ensure we onboard and develop our teams successfully; actively working with Managers in the business to understand the roles and skills needed of the business; supporting training initiatives and liaising with external stakeholders; assisting in coordinating Global Culture initiatives; administration, general tasks, and ongoing projects to support the People & Culture department and Solent Head Office function.

Skills & Experience

• CIPD or equivalent professional qualification.
• Strong understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate business needs into HR initiatives.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret HR data and metrics.
• High level of integrity and professionalism, with a commitment to confidentiality.

What we offer

• Competitive salary with annual salary reviews.
• 25 days holiday per annum, increasing to 27 days after 3 years' service and 30 days after 5 years' service.
• Extensive benefits programme including buying additional holiday, medical cash plan, access to mental health support, and many other benefits.
• Flexible hours and work from home available to all staff with an office presence ideally once a week.
• Great learning and development and progression opportunities.
• Yearly bonus structure (based on company targets).
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Leave.
• Generous Company Sick Pay.
• Pension Scheme Contribution.
• Annual social events.
• Cycle to Work scheme.