At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide hands-on HR advice and manage employee relations across the UK and Europe.
- Company: Join Quaker Houghton, a global leader in industrial process fluids with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and two paid volunteering days each year.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee relations and support organisational change in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR advisory roles and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Access continuous learning opportunities and genuine career development within HR.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 ÂŁ per year.
At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of industrial process fluids, lubricants and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial and manufacturing companies from aerospace and automotive to primary metal and energy. Today, we have a global presence, with our corporate headquarters located in Conshohocken, PA. Quaker Houghton is a global publicly traded company with a unique collaborative culture that supports career growth for its colleagues and offers competitive compensation and benefit programs.
As HR Advisor, you will be responsible for the effective management of operational employee relations matters, providing practical, solution‑focused HR advice while supporting TUPE activity, organizational change, and core people processes across the UK and Europe.
What’s in it For You?
- 12‑month fixed‑term contract, with the possibility of extension
- Hybrid working arrangement with a base in Manchester or Coventry and regular travel between sites
- Competitive compensation package
- Car allowance
- Two paid volunteering days per year.
- Genuine career development opportunities within HR and related areas
- Access to QH University, offering continuous learning and development for all levels
- Comprehensive wellbeing, mental health, women inclusion, and broader DEI programmes
- The opportunity to see your work make a real impact on the business—solving problems and creating value are part of our DNA
What will you do?
- Provide hands‑on HR advice and guidance to managers across the UK and Europe, with a primary focus on employee relations matters within the Commercial business
- Manage TUPE activities as required, including liaison with internal stakeholders and HR leadership
- Support site rationalisation and restructuring activity from an employee relations and change perspective
- Lead and resolve complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, absence, and performance matters, conducting fair and objective investigations
- Support managers with performance management, including the development and monitoring of Performance Improvement Plans
- Apply effective change management practices to support business transformation and local organisational change
- Work closely with the wider HR team to ensure consistent application of HR policies, processes, and employment legislation
- Partner with Talent & Organisational Capability teams to support engagement, retention, and local people initiatives
- Lead and support annual people processes, including performance cycles, talent reviews, succession planning, and compensation planning
- Collaborate with Talent Acquisition on recruitment activities for supported sites
- Contribute to HR‑led projects and initiatives related to organisational effectiveness, culture, or employee experience
- Provide confidential coaching and guidance to employees and managers, handling sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion
What do we look for?
- Proven experience in an HR Advisor or similar role with a strong focus on operational employee relations
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex ER cases confidently, fairly, and in line with UK employment legislation
- Hands‑on experience supporting TUPE processes and organisational change activity
- Practical understanding of change management principles and how they apply in day‑to‑day people situations
- Strong written and verbal English communication skills, with the ability to advise and challenge managers constructively
- Relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in HR, Business, or a related field is desirable; CIPD qualification or working toward one is an advantage
- Flexibility and willingness to travel across UK sites, working effectively in a multi‑site environment.
- A pragmatic, resilient approach with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
About Us
We are the global leader in industrial process fluids and engineering present in 40+ countries continually improving and innovating so the world’s steel, aluminum, automotive, aircraft, machinery and industrial parts manufacturers can stay ahead in a changing world. Throughout our 100+ locations, our chemists, engineers and industry experts partner with our customers to continually improve their operations so they can run even more efficiently, even more effectively, whatever comes next.
Our values: Live Safe, Exceed Customer Expectations, Drive Results, Embrace Diversity, Do Great Things Together, Act with integrity. Our core values embody who we are as a company, guide our decisions and inspire us. Our commitment to these values, in words and actions, builds a safer, stronger Quaker Houghton. They are the fundamental beliefs that guide our internal conduct and our relationship with the outside world.
HR Advisor in Leicester employer: Quaker Houghton
Contact Detail:
Quaker Houghton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Advisor in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Quaker Houghton on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Quaker Houghton’s values and recent projects. We want to see how you align with our culture and how you can contribute to our mission of doing great things together!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common HR scenarios. Think about how you’d handle complex employee relations cases or support TUPE activities. We love candidates who can demonstrate practical solutions!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to showcase your continuous learning mindset! Mention any relevant courses or certifications you’re pursuing, especially if they relate to HR practices or change management. It shows us you’re committed to growth!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Advisor in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Advisor role. Highlight your experience with employee relations and TUPE processes, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and achievements in similar roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about HR and how your values align with ours at Quaker Houghton. Be sure to mention any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle complex employee relations cases.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Strong written communication is crucial for this role. Make sure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. We want to see your ability to advise and challenge constructively, so let your personality come through while maintaining professionalism.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll get to explore more about our company culture and values while you’re at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at Quaker Houghton
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Quaker Houghton’s operations and values. Understand their focus on employee relations and TUPE processes. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific situations where you've successfully managed complex employee relations cases or supported organisational change. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an HR Advisor, strong communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be ready to discuss how you’ve advised managers constructively in the past, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive matters professionally.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, team dynamics, and how they approach employee engagement. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values and career goals.