At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR projects, implement systems, and shape HR practices from the ground up.
- Company: Think HR partners with a dynamic SME in St Albans, focusing on innovative HR solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy autonomy, variety, and the chance to make a lasting impact in a transformative environment.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced settings and want to create sustainable HR frameworks.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR project delivery, strong generalist background, and knowledge of UK employment law required.
- Other info: This is a 6-month contract with potential for extension, fully office-based in St Albans.
Think HR is proud to be partnering with a dynamic and growing SME based in St Albans to recruit an experienced HR Consultant for a 6-month project-based contract, with the potential for extension.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead the creation and implementation of a full HR framework from the ground up. The business is undergoing a transformative phase, and this role will play a pivotal part in shaping its HR infrastructure and embedding sustainable practices across the employee lifecycle.
About the Role
The successful consultant will take ownership of several high-impact HR projects, including the selection and implementation of a new HRIS. You\’ll be working closely with the leadership team and supporting a HR Coordinator, with a focus on setting up systems and structures that will empower them to continue delivering once the project concludes.
Key Responsibilities:
- HRIS Implementation – Lead the end-to-end selection and roll-out of a fit-for-purpose HRIS tailored to SME needs.
- Policy Review & Compliance – Audit and update all core HR policies (e.g. attendance, performance, holiday, recruitment, H&S) to ensure legal compliance and best practice.
- Staff Handbook – Review and refresh the handbook to support a smooth onboarding and employee experience.
- Onboarding Process Design – Evaluate current onboarding processes and design a compliant, engaging, and scalable solution.
- Recruitment Oversight – Partner with the HR Coordinator to support ongoing recruitment needs.
- Performance Management System – Implement a robust PMS to ensure all employees have clear goals and development pathways.
- Salary Benchmarking – Conduct a market-based salary review to ensure internal equity and external competitiveness.
- Succession Planning – Identify critical roles and develop contingency strategies to support future growth.
What We\’re Looking For:
- Proven experience delivering HR projects within an SME environment – particularly around systems implementation and HR infrastructure.
- Strong HR generalist background with project leadership skills.
- Experience mentoring or supporting junior HR professionals.
- Confident in navigating change and engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
- Up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices.
- Comfortable being fully office-based in St Albans for the duration of the contract due to the hands-on nature of the work.
Why This Role?
This is an ideal role for a senior-level HR contractor or consultant who thrives in fast-paced, change-oriented environments. You\’ll have autonomy, variety, and the opportunity to create lasting impact, setting up the HR function for long-term success.
Think Human Resources is the HR division of Think Specialist Recruitment, an independently owned recruitment business. The HR division is responsible for recruiting permanent, temporary and contract roles within the field of Human Resources including; HR Administrator, HR Assistant, HR Advisor, HR Business Partner, HR Manager, Head of HR, Employee Relations, talent, internal recruitment, Learning and Development, Compensation and Benefits/Reward and Recognition.
HR Consultant employer: Think Specialist Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Think Specialist Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific HRIS systems commonly used in SMEs. Being knowledgeable about these tools will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your proactive approach to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current and former HR professionals who have experience in implementing HR frameworks. They can provide valuable insights and may even refer you to opportunities within their networks.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in leading HR projects, particularly those that involved change management. Highlighting your ability to navigate challenges will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest UK employment laws and HR best practices. This knowledge will be crucial in demonstrating your expertise and ensuring compliance in the projects you'll be managing.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in delivering HR projects, particularly in SME environments. Emphasise your project leadership skills and any relevant HRIS implementation experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention specific projects you've led that align with the responsibilities listed, such as policy reviews or onboarding process design.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on your strong HR generalist background and your ability to navigate change. Include examples of how you've engaged with stakeholders at various levels in previous roles.
Showcase Your Knowledge of Employment Law: Demonstrate your up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices in your application. This will show that you are well-prepared to handle compliance and policy updates effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Think Specialist Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific HR projects you've led, especially those involving systems implementation. Highlight your role in these projects and the impact they had on the organisation.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of UK Employment Law
Brush up on current UK employment laws and best practices. Be ready to discuss how you have applied this knowledge in previous roles, particularly in relation to policy compliance and employee rights.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with the leadership team, think about examples where you've successfully engaged stakeholders at various levels. Show that you can communicate effectively and build relationships.
✨Prepare for Change Management Questions
Expect questions about navigating change within an organisation. Prepare examples of how you've managed transitions or implemented new processes, focusing on your approach to overcoming resistance and ensuring buy-in.