At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR processes and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join an award-winning law firm known for its supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team with regular social events and career progression.
- Why this job: Kickstart your HR career with real impact and development opportunities.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a proactive attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
- HR Administrator – Preston
- Full-time | Permanent | Graduate Level
Harrison-Drury is a market-leading firm of solicitors with offices in Lancashire, Cumbria, and Staffordshire.
We’re delighted to be named one of the UK’s Best Companies to work for for the third year running, placing at number 40 in the Top 100 Best Mid‑Sized Companies to Work For list.
We also ranked 10th in the Best Companies to Work For in the Law Sector — achievements that reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, people-focused workplace.
We are an employer of choice because we challenge the conventional law‑firm approach and focus our energy on achieving great results for our clients while attracting, developing, and empowering brilliant people.
About The Role
Our Operations team is looking to recruit an HR Administrator — a fantastic opportunity for a graduate seeking to develop a career in HR.
You’ll gain hands‑on experience across the full HR lifecycle and work towards a Level 5 CIPD qualification, supported by the team.
You’ll provide accurate, timely, and professional HR support across the business, working closely with the HR Manager and Talent Acquisition Specialist.
This role is ideal for someone who is organised, proactive, and confident working in a busy commercial environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage HR software systems, ensuring accurate and timely data entry
- Produce HR reports as required
- Support recruitment activity: drafting adverts, acknowledging applicants, organising timetables, and scheduling interviews
- Administer the onboarding process for new starters
- Liaise with payroll to ensure smooth and accurate communication
- Provide day‑to‑day advice to managers and employees on general HR queries, escalating where needed
- Assist with note‑taking in meetings
- Process resignations and manage leaver administration
- Provide employment references in line with company policy
- Organise and facilitate work‑experience placements
- Coordinate careers events with educational partners
- Contribute to HR projects, including policy updates and accreditation maintenance
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and internal processes
Skills & Experience
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Good organisation and planning skills, with the ability to prioritise
- Discretion and self‑awareness when handling confidential information
- Self‑motivated with a desire to learn and progress
- Strong IT skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Desirable
- Experience working as an HR Administrator within a professional services environment
Benefits
- Hybrid working policy
- Medicash health benefits cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Holiday entitlement increases with length of service
- Paid time off for voluntary work (2 days per year)
- Free conveyancing for the purchase/sale of your primary residence
- Free individual or mirror Wills
- Employee referral scheme
- Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process
- Regular social events, including our annual Christmas party and staff recognition awards
- Progression towards professional qualifications (CIPD)
Why Join Us?
- Be part of an award‑winning, people‑focused firm
- Work alongside recognised experts in the field
- Enjoy a supportive culture that invests in development and wellbeing
- Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle
- Opportunity to make a real impact in a growing team
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Graduate HR Administrator in Preston employer: TargetJobs UK
At targetjobs UK, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our Graduate Fire Engineer role not only provides competitive benefits such as 25 days holiday and flexible working options but also presents unique opportunities for professional growth in the thriving Cherwell District. Join us to make a meaningful impact in fire safety while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate HR Administrator in Preston
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at TargetJobs UK!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at TargetJobs UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate HR Administrator in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at TargetJobs UK. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to TargetJobs UK and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at TargetJobs UK. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to TargetJobs UK's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with TargetJobs UK.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at TargetJobs UK will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact TargetJobs UK and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
