At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR initiatives and support a compassionate team dedicated to refugees.
- Company: Join Refugee Action, a charity with over 40 years of empowering lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Flexible role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of refugees while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified or equivalent HR experience required.
The predicted salary is between 55409 - 67723 £ per year.
Salary: £44,075 starting salary (salary range will increase to max £47,181 via the length of service) per annum. Plus £4,324 Inner London Weighting if based in London.
Contract: Fixed term basis for 12 months, to cover maternity leave.
Hours: Full‑Time 35 hours per week (excluding lunch breaks)
Location: Any Refugee Action office (London, Manchester, Bradford). We will consider a UK‑based hybrid working option.
About Refugee Action
Refugee Action exists to work with refugees and people seeking asylum who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes. We are a national charity with more than 40 years’ experience of empowering people who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes to secure the protection and support that they need to live with dignity and respect and build a new life in the UK. We do this by providing expert advice and casework, building the capacity of partner organisations and campaigning on the policies that affect them.
To succeed in the role, you will need to demonstrate:
- Commitment to removing barriers to power for people with lived experience, and commitment to anti‑racist practices
- Understanding of how the UK’s hostile refugee protection and asylum system impacts those affected by it
- Demonstrable experience of providing HR advice and guidance to senior leadership and staff that balances UK employment legislation, organisational policies, procedures and risk with organisational values, where you consider the impact on people and organisational culture
- Experience of working collaboratively with senior leadership, managers and staff, across a breadth of operational and strategic HR issues, promoting trust and positive employee relations
- Significant experience in employee relations case management and change processes
- Skilled in developing and implementing HR practices, policies and systems
- Experience of coaching and successfully influencing managers to consider the impact of their decisions on people and organisational culture
- Proactive, flexible and manages own workload to meet deadlines
- Commitment to confidentiality and handling personal data sensitively
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills including active listening
- High levels of accuracy and attention to detail
- Delivering successful outcomes within a working culture that is underpinned by organisational values, empathy and compassion
Required Qualifications
CIPD qualified or equivalent HR qualification
Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday, 23 August 2026
Interviews: Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are strongly encouraged. We may contact suitable candidates before the closing date, as we are looking for the role to start as soon as possible.
Human Resources Manager – Maternity Cover in Manchester employer: Refugee Action
Refugee Action Kingston (RAK) is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for its staff, particularly in the rewarding role of Youth Activities and Enrichment Coordinator. With a strong commitment to employee growth, RAK offers flexible working arrangements, a friendly team atmosphere, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people from diverse backgrounds in South West London. Join us in our mission to empower refugees and asylum seekers while enjoying a workplace that values diversity and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Manager – Maternity Cover in Manchester
✨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 Refugee Action 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 Human Resources Manager – Maternity Cover in Manchester
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 Refugee Action. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Refugee Action
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Refugee Action, 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 Refugee Action 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 Refugee Action.
✨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 Refugee Action.
