HR Advisor (Maternity Cover)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced HR professional to join a values-driven organisation as a Human Resources Adviser on a 9-month fixed-term contract to cover maternity leave, starting in August 2025. Location: Based in Chelmsford with hybrid working available (minimum 60% in-office) Contract Type: Fixed-Term, Part-Time (approximately 21 hours per week) Salary: £35,000–£37,500 FTE (Pro rata: £21,000–£22,500) Core Office Days: Monday and Thursday (flexible working considered) About the Role The HR Adviser will play a key role in supporting managers and stakeholders across a broad range of HR matters. The role includes: Providing professional HR advice on employee relations, performance management, sickness absence, and recruitment Supporting matters relating to HR legislation and policy Participating in HR projects and initiatives aimed at improving practices and systems Contributing to policy development and compliance with employment law and data protection requirements Working collaboratively within a small, supportive HR team and across departmentsCandidate Profile Applicants should hold a relevant HR qualification (CIPD Level 5 or equivalent) and have solid HR generalist experience. The ideal candidate will bring: A strong understanding of employment law and HR best practice Demonstrated experience in providing advice across a range of HR topics Proven ability to support recruitment, induction, and probation processes Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a customer-focused approach A collaborative working style, with discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive informationWhy Join? This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an organisation rooted in community and service. The role offers varied and meaningful HR work, flexible working arrangements, and a collaborative and inclusive team environment