At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide HR support and advice to Southern Water employees while ensuring compliance with policies.
- Company: Join Southern Water, a leader in transforming the water industry with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary starting from £36,000, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to inclusion and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in HR while contributing to a generational shift in water services.
- Qualifications: Strong IT skills, knowledge of HR policies, and ideally CIPD qualified or working towards it.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Durrington, Worthing (hybrid)
Contract Type: 12 Month Fixed Term Contract
Hours: 37
Salary: From £36,000 based on skills and experience
Closing Date: 2026-08-07
About The Role
Working as a member of the people services team, be the first point of contact for Southern Water employees at all levels with the aim of providing HR advice and support in line within organisational policies, procedures and legal requirements.
What You Will Be Responsible For
- Employment law
- Employee relations
- Staff movements
- Reward and Performance
- Learning and Development
- Recruitment and selection
- Ensure legislation, policy and best practice are followed and HR KPI’s are met
- Confidently respond to incoming telephone and written enquiries, log outcomes, and ensure that all individuals are given a case reference number
- Escalate to the People Services Managers, any enquiries which require deeper investigation/advice in accordance with the PSD Escalation Procedure.
- Monitor and ensure a resolution has been reached after query has been escalated to ensure HR KPI’s are met or exceeded. Provide regular updates to clients regarding outstanding calls
- Ensure people services processes and standard correspondence are fit for purpose, compliant, and in line with Southern Water’s employer brand, liaising with offshore as appropriate
- Analyse and interpret trends in work and queries to promote awareness of issues around the business, and recommend business/policy/process improvement opportunities
- Arrange and co-ordinate administrative processes such as pre-employment checks, confidential health surveillance checks, reference creation, eye care vouchers and other HR schemes
- Ordering, purchasing and processing invoices for goods and services in line with company procedures
- Maintain an up to date knowledge of employment law, best practice and internal policies and procedures
- Coach more junior members of the People Services Team
- Any other duties as required.
What You’ll Bring To The Role
- Excellent IT skills (office suite) and other HR systems
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Extensive knowledge of HR policies and processes and the ability to work within set parameters
- Understanding of governance and compliance policies, including Data Protection principles
- CIPD qualified or working towards qualification
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.
You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation.
Our Commitment to Diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Additional Information
In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years. Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all pre‑employment checks, including security vetting. Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.
People Advisor in Worthing employer: Southern Water
Southern Water is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises environmental sustainability and compliance. With a focus on employee growth, the company provides opportunities for professional development in the utilities sector, all while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model. Join us in making a meaningful impact on water management and environmental protection in a supportive and innovative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People Advisor in Worthing
✨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 Southern Water 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 People Advisor in Worthing
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 Southern Water. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Water
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Southern Water, 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 Southern Water 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 Southern Water.
✨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 Southern Water.