At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR functions and be the go-to person for employee queries.
- Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a global leader in animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, hybrid working, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful location with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in animal welfare while building your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and familiarity with HR processes required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare organisation, offering care and protection to donkeys worldwide. Our vision is a world where every donkey has a good quality of life, and our mission is to improve the lives of donkeys every day. We will achieve this by transforming the lives of donkeys in need worldwide by fostering greater understanding, collaboration and support, and by promoting lasting, mutually life-enhancing relationships.
We have an exciting opportunity for a well-organised, customer-focused professional to join our busy People Team. You will provide high-quality administrative support across all HR/People functions and act as a trusted first point of contact for employee enquiries. You will be confident using HR systems, have a keen eye for detail and demonstrate excellent communication skills.
About you:
- Able to demonstrate an understanding of HR/People Team principles, processes, and HRIS systems.
- Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Able to demonstrate advanced Microsoft Office skills, including Excel, Outlook and calendar management.
- High accuracy and attention to detail when handling data and documentation.
- Demonstrate excellent organisation skills and ability to manage a varied workload in a fast-paced environment.
- Able to demonstrate the ability to work confidentially, collaboratively, and on own initiative.
About the role:
As a People Team Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting the smooth running of our People Team operations. Your responsibilities will include:
- Acting as the first point of contact for People Team enquiries, resolving routine queries and escalating complex matters appropriately.
- Communicating professionally and confidentially with employees and stakeholders.
- Managing the Applications and HR Helpdesk inboxes and all associated administrative tasks.
- Preparing employment contracts and conducting Right to Work checks; completing Credit Safe checks for roles requiring financial vetting.
- Compiling and importing sensitive data for system transfers and monthly payroll processing.
- Instructing payroll on new starters, leavers and contractual changes.
- Coordinating induction days and liaising with relevant teams to ensure a smooth onboarding experience.
- Maintaining and updating absence and holiday records for variable-hours employees.
- Managing DBS renewals for employees, volunteers and trustees, as well as other safeguarding checks.
- Raising purchase orders, processing invoices, and coordinating with Procurement to set up new suppliers in eBIS (UK and international).
- Generating and distributing weekly and monthly reports to internal and external stakeholders.
What we offer in return:
Based in Sidmouth, Devon – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – this is a part-time permanent contract, to start as soon as possible, working 28 hours per week. Please note the hours could be worked 09.00 – 15.30 over 5 days, Monday – Friday or over 4 days working 08.30 – 16.30 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. The working pattern for this role will be hybrid working, which combines onsite and home working under our guiding principles for such roles, with onsite attendance currently anticipated to be 2-4 days per month. The working pattern will be agreed between the line manager and post-holder.
Life assurance. 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service. Wellbeing team. Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes. Long service awards. Healthshield plan – Reimbursement of some medical expenses up to the specified limits per membership. Offers, discounts and cashback on shopping, travel and entertainment from participating outlets. Access to a 24/7 GP and counselling service. Free parking. Subsidised restaurant and shop.
Closing date for completed applications: Tuesday 17 February 2026. The Donkey Sanctuary is a Disability Confident Employer. The Donkey Sanctuary is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults), and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post.
People Team Assistant (2150) in Sidmouth employer: The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. Located in the stunning Sidmouth, Devon, employees enjoy a hybrid working model, generous holiday allowances, and access to wellness initiatives such as Pilates and Yoga classes. With a commitment to animal welfare and a focus on fostering meaningful relationships, joining our People Team means contributing to a noble mission while enjoying a fulfilling and balanced work life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People Team Assistant (2150) in Sidmouth
✨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 The Donkey Sanctuary!
✨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 The Donkey Sanctuary.
We think you need these skills to ace People Team Assistant (2150) in Sidmouth
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 The Donkey Sanctuary. 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 The Donkey Sanctuary 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 The Donkey Sanctuary. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to The Donkey Sanctuary'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 The Donkey Sanctuary
✨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 The Donkey Sanctuary.
✨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 The Donkey Sanctuary 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 The Donkey Sanctuary and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
