HR Associate - Operations

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow by Building a Smokeless World. To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey!

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an HR Associate - Operations in Southampton, Fixed-term contract - 18 months. The objective of the role is to support the HR Business Partnering team in delivering people initiatives and providing day-to-day HR support to managers and employees. This role is designed to offer hands-on experience across the HR lifecycle, enabling the development of foundational HR knowledge and skills while contributing to a positive employee experience.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Support and execute the delivery of essential HR processes such as onboarding, probation reviews, and exit processes, for both permanent employees and third party contractors.
• Act as a first point of contact for employee queries, escalating complex issues to the right teams or managers as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate employee records in SuccessFactors and assist in preparing HR reports and dashboards.
• Assist in the communication and application of HR policies and procedures.
• Contribute to HR projects, programmes and initiatives, such as engagement surveys, internship programme, and diversity and inclusion efforts, amongst others.
• Support the coordination of training sessions and learning activities for employees and managers.
• Build relationships with line managers and employees to understand their needs and provide timely HR support.

What are we looking for?

Experience Required:

• Human Resources, Business, Psychology, or a related field.
• Internship or placement year in an HR or office-based environment is desirable but not essential.
• Familiarity with basic HR principles (can be academic knowledge).
• Enthusiasm for learning and developing a career in HR.

Technical / Functional / Leadership Skills Required:

• Able to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills.
• Accurate in handling data and documentation; good attention to detail.
• Understands the importance of handling sensitive information with discretion.
• Comfortable using HR systems, Microsoft Office, and digital collaboration tools.
• Strong analytic skills; affinity with analytical activities and software systems.
• Eager to learn from experience, feedback, and formal development opportunities.
• Possess strong initiative, self-driven.
• Takes ownership of tasks and follows through on commitments.
• Works well with others and contributes positively to team dynamics.
• Understands the importance of delivering a positive employee experience.
• Resilient, flexible, and confident to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required:

• Degree/MBA qualification - Human Resources, Business, Psychology, or a related field.

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility).
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives.
• Your journey with us isn’t limited by boundaries; it’s propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn’t just a statement – it’s a reality we’re eager to build together.
• You’ll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills.
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes.

WHY JOIN BAT?

We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions. Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture). Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.