HR Manager in Ipswich

The HR Manager is responsible for leading and managing the Human Resources function within a CQC-regulated care organisation, ensuring full compliance with CQC regulations, safer recruitment standards, employment law, and organisational policies. The role requires strong leadership, robust oversight, and proactive management of risk, ensuring that all HR processes are safe, compliant, and auditable. The HR Manager will play a critical role in safeguarding service users by ensuring that only suitably vetted, trained, and competent staff are deployed. Given previous regulatory concerns, this role requires high levels of accountability, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to audit and governance.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership and Team Management
  • Lead, manage, and develop the HR team to ensure high performance, accountability, and compliance.
  • Set clear expectations, objectives, and performance standards aligned with regulatory requirements.
  • Conduct regular supervisions, appraisals, and performance reviews for HR staff.
  • Provide guidance, coaching, and support to ensure consistent and compliant HR practice.
  • Escalate risks and concerns promptly to Director level.
• Safer Recruitment (CQC Regulation 19 Compliance)
  • Take full responsibility for ensuring all recruitment processes meet CQC Regulation 19 (Fit and Proper Persons Employed) requirements.
  • Ensure no staff are deployed without verified references, valid DBS checks, and confirmed Right to Work documentation.
  • Implement and maintain a robust safer recruitment framework.
  • Lead on continuous improvement of recruitment practices in line with safeguarding standards.
• HR Audit and Compliance Oversight
  • Design, implement, and maintain a comprehensive HR audit programme.
  • Conduct regular audits of safer recruitment compliance, Right to Work documentation, and DBS and referencing.
  • Produce audit reports with clear actions, timelines, and accountability.
  • Prepare HR documentation and evidence for CQC inspections and Local Authority reviews.
• Risk Management and Governance
  • Identify, assess, and manage risks within the HR function.
  • Ensure all risks are documented, approved by appropriate management level, and regularly reviewed.
  • Act as a key point of escalation for compliance risks to senior management.
• Workforce Compliance and Development
  • Ensure all staff receive regular supervision and appraisal and access to mandatory and role-specific training.
  • Work closely with operational teams to ensure safe staffing levels and competency.
• Payroll and HR Systems Oversight
  • Oversee HR systems to ensure data accuracy and compliance.
  • Collaborate with payroll to ensure staff are paid correctly and consistently.
• Policy Implementation and Legal Compliance
  • Ensure all HR policies are aligned with legislation and CQC standards.
  • Provide expert HR advice to senior management.
• Reporting and Accountability
  • Provide regular reports to Directors on HR compliance, audit outcomes, risks, and mitigation actions.
  • Support strategic decision-making through accurate HR data and insight.

Person Specification

• Proven experience in an HR management role within a health and social care or CQC-regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of CQC standards, safer recruitment practices, and employment law.
• Demonstrable experience of managing HR teams, conducting audits, and driving compliance.
• CIPD Level 5 or above (Level 7 desirable).
• Experience managing HR in a service that has undergone regulatory scrutiny or improvement processes.

Additional Requirements

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults.
• Enhanced DBS check required.
• Flexibility to respond to organisational and regulatory needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in HR management, preferably within the social care sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and best practices in HR.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficient in HR software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.