People Advisor in Sunderland

About the Human Resources Team

We are dedicated to fostering a vibrant workplace culture that attracts, develops, and retains top talent, ensuring that every member of our team feels valued and empowered to contribute their best. Our team is passionate about creating a supportive environment, from implementing professional development programs to enhancing employee engagement initiatives. We also prioritize diversity and inclusion, actively seeking to build a workforce that reflects our community.

The Opportunity

SAFC is seeking a dedicated and proactive People Officer to join our dynamic team. In this essential role, you will lead the design, delivery, and evaluation of innovative learning and development programmes that support the club’s strategic goals. You will identify individual, team, and organisational development needs through performance reviews, talent assessments, and strategic planning, working in partnership with external providers to facilitate leadership, management, and technical training sessions. By promoting a culture of continuous professional development, you will ensure our staff are equipped with the skills they need to succeed. Furthermore, you will support managers and leaders through coaching, mentoring, and tailored development initiatives, helping to develop effective management capabilities and build a resilient leadership pipeline. Your expertise will also be vital in contributing to recruitment strategies, building talent pipelines, and enhancing our employer brand to attract top talent. You will serve as a key point of contact for employee relations, offering guidance on dispute resolution, managing exit processes, and conducting exit interviews to support organisational improvement. With a focus on HR operations and compliance, you will maintain accurate HR records, ensure adherence to legal standards, and assist in the development of HR policies. In addition, you will support performance and talent management initiatives by helping to implement review cycles, identify high‑potential employees, and support their development pathways. If you are passionate about developing people and fostering a positive, high‑performing workplace culture, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact at SAFC.

What We Ask For

We are looking for someone with a Level 5 CIPD qualification or equivalent, or at least five years of comprehensive HR experience. You should have extensive experience in Learning & Development, Management Development, and Recruitment. A broad knowledge of HR, including employee relations, policies, compliance, and operational HR, is essential. Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills are vital, along with the ability to work proactively in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment. Strong organisational skills are also important to prioritise and manage multiple projects effectively. Additionally, an enhanced DBS check, as provided by SAFC, is required. You will be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS through SAFC.

Equal Opportunities

Sunderland AFC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applicants equally. Our aim is that all colleagues should be able to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying.

Safeguarding

Sunderland AFC recognises that the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance within the organisation. Sunderland AFC owes a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities organised by the football club. Sunderland AFC will ensure that safety and protection is given to all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities through adherence to the Safeguarding guidelines adopted by the Club. Importantly, safeguarding is not the responsibility of a single individual or team; it is a collective responsibility that involves everyone associated with the club. From staff and volunteers to players and supporters, each person has a crucial role in creating a safe and welcoming environment. All members of the Sunderland AFC community are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow safeguarding procedures, and report any concerns promptly, knowing that safeguarding is a shared responsibility that helps protect those most vulnerable.

Benefits

• Annual Leave: 25 days leave (in addition to public holidays), increasing to 27 days after 5 years’ service.
• Death in Service Employee Benefit: The Death in Service benefit provides peace of mind for you and your family, offering a safety net of four times the basic annual salary in the unfortunate event of a loss.
• Salary Exchange Schemes: Agree to reduce your salary through our Salary Exchange Schemes to enjoy benefits like tax savings, increased pension contributions for a larger retirement fund, eco‑friendly travel with EV Salary Sacrifice, and healthier commutes with Cycle 2 Work.
• Complimentary Season Tickets: Score two free tickets for all home fixtures, so you can kick back, cheer on the club, and enjoy all the Premier League action.
• Enhanced Family and Parental Pay: Enhanced Paternity, Maternity, and Adoption pay provide new parents with more than just statutory pay, offering additional financial support to embrace your time with your families.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Offer confidential support services that go beyond just workplace wellness, providing you with access to counselling, resources, and tools to tackle personal challenges and enhance your overall well‑being.
• Free Parking: Free parking at both the Stadium of Light and the Academy of Light.
• Discounts: SAFC employees enjoy various discount packages from our partners, including exclusive offers at the Club Store.