Interim HR Specialist (Maternity Cover)

Interim HR Specialist (Maternity Cover)

Temporary 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) Hybrid
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide HR support, manage recruitment, and enhance employee experience.
  • Company: Join Publicis Re:Sources, a leading global communications company.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and comprehensive health benefits.
  • Other info: Work in a vibrant office at the iconic Television Centre, London.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in HR while supporting a diverse workforce.
  • Qualifications: Experience in HR roles and knowledge of employment law required.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

  • Company Description
  • Publicis

Re: Sources is at the core of Publicis Groupe, the world's largest communications company.

We are the only full-service, end-to-end shared service organisation in the industry, enabling Groupe agencies to do what they do best: innovate and transform for their clients.

Formed in 1998 as a small team to service a few Publicis Groupe firms, Publicis

Re: Sources has grown to 6,000+ employees in over 55 countries.

We provide technology solutions and business services, including finance, accounting, legal, benefits, procurement, tax, real estate, treasury and risk management, information security, and global mobility — supporting 110,000+ employees across the Publicis Groupe network.

Our people are at the centre of everything we do, bringing curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence to their work every day.

Learn more about Publicis Re: Sources and the Publicis Groupe agencies we support at publicisresources. com

  • #LI-KM2
  • Overview
  • We are looking for an experienced

HR Specialist (12 months Maternity Cover) to provide generalist HR support across the UK and Ireland, acting as a key contact for employees and managers.

Reporting directly to the Head of HR, UK & Ireland, the role supports the full employee lifecycle, ensuring consistent application of HR policies, procedures, and best practices.

The HR Specialist also contributes to reporting, HR projects and initiatives that enhance employee experience, compliance, and operational efficiency.

This role will be based in our London office. Please only apply if you have the right to work in UK.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide first-line HR support and guidance to employees and managers on policies, procedures, and employment legislation.
  • Support employee relations cases including performance, disciplinary, grievance, absence, and wellbeing matters.
  • Lead and co-ordinate recruitment and onboarding processes, including job postings, candidate screening, interview scheduling, offer, contract issue, and induction.
  • Maintain accurate employee records in the HRIS and ensure timely updates to payroll, benefits and finance teams.
  • Monitor probation periods and support managers with review processes.
  • Assist with HR reporting and data analysis to support decision-making and compliance.
  • Support the implementation of HR initiatives including training, diversity & inclusion, engagement, and wellbeing programmes.
  • Ensure compliance with GDPR and internal audit requirements.

Key Competencies

  • Performance & Accuracy: Deliver high-quality, error-free work consistently and meets deadlines reliably.
  • HR Qualifications & Knowledge: Demonstrate sound understanding of HR processes, policies, and employment law.

Hold relevant HR certification (e. g., CIPD Level 3 or above or equivalent experience).

  • Employee Relations: Support ER cases confidently.
  • Systems Proficiency: Skilled in HR systems such as Career Settings, Better Works, Qualtrics, and Altair.
  • Reporting & Analysis: Able to generate and interpret HR data to support decision-making.
  • Compliance: Maintain high standards of legal and policy compliance and supports audit readiness.
  • Approachability: Build strong relationships and is accessible, empathetic, and discreet.
  • Proactivity: Take initiative, anticipates needs, and suggests improvements.

Qualifications

Experience/Qualifications

  • Ability to give appropriate advice on a range of HR best practices whilst being empathetic, supportive and risk adverse.
  • Experience of being in a fast paced and varied HR generalist role.
  • Preferable Shared Service Centre experience.
  • Preferable experience of HR practice in Ireland.
  • Knowledge & Skills (including technology)
  • Employment law & HR best practice.
  • HR policies and procedures.
  • Strong Microsoft office skills.
  • Excellent time management, prioritisation and multi-tasking.
  • Strong communication skills with all levels.
  • Attributes/Behaviours
  • Organised and methodical.
  • Proactive and positive attitude.
  • Display discretion when managing confidential information.
  • Additional Information

We offer a hybrid working pattern of 3 days in the office and 2 days WFH. Our main office islocated in the iconic Television Centre (TVC) at White City, London.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and are committed to providing a fair assessment process and are happy to discuss and explore reasonable adjustments during the hiring process.

Publicis Groupe UK fosters and inclusive environment through our inspirational Employee Action Groups (EAGs).

We have a comprehensive benefits offering.

Our full health and lifestyle benefits package will be shared with you, when you join us.

In addition to key benefits like Pension, Life Assurance, Income Protection and Private Medical, some of our other benefits are:

Annual Leave (25 days plus 8 bank holidays), increasing after 5 years, by 1 day per additional service up to 30 days.

Birthday Day Of f that can be used in your birthday monthand the opportunity to Buyor Sell Holiday at the start on each year.

Flexible Bank Holidays, you can switch the 2 Easter bank holidays for other days of your choosing .

Reflection Days for time away from work to focus on what works best for you.

Help@Hand, our lifestyle and wellbeing app that supports you and your family; 24/7Helpline, Remote GPs, Medical or 2nd Opinion, Mental Health &Wellbeing, Physiotherapy,1-2-1 Lifestyle Coaching, Nutritional Consultations, Savings & Discounts and lots more.

Inclusive Policies to support you and your family including enhanced Family Leave, Disability, Carers, Transitioning at Work, Flexible Working, Menopause.

Local discounts, restaurants & retailers in Westfield White City. Onsite Café with complimentary breakfast, a subsidised lunch menu, and an in-house barista.

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Interim HR Specialist (Maternity Cover) employer: Publicis Groupe UK

Publicis Sapient is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Digital Transformation Associate Consultant, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, working alongside industry leaders while contributing to impactful projects for diverse clients. With a focus on a start-up mindset, the company encourages creativity and agility, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in a vibrant environment.

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Contact Details:

Publicis Groupe UK Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Interim HR Specialist (Maternity Cover)

✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies

Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.

✨Network at HR Events and Workshops

Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!

✨Showcase Your Flexibility

In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!

✨Apply Directly Through Our Website

Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Publicis Groupe UK and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!

We think you need these skills to ace Interim HR Specialist (Maternity Cover)

Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Time Management
Flexibility
Organizational Skills
Compassion

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!

Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!

Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!

Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Publicis Groupe UK. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Publicis Groupe UK

✨Showcase Your Adaptability

Given that this is a temporary HR role at Publicis Groupe UK, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.

✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools

Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Publicis Groupe UK uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.

✨Your Motivation Matters

As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Publicis Groupe UK.

✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios

HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Publicis Groupe UK.