At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide HR advice, support recruitment, and develop policies to enhance employee experience.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.
- Benefits: Gain valuable HR experience in a collaborative environment with career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity for maternity cover until December 2027.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee wellbeing and organisational success.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 qualified with relevant HR experience.
Are you an experienced HR professional looking for a varied and rewarding role where you can make a real impact?
We are seeking a proactive and knowledgeable HR & Development Adviser to join our HR team on a fixed-term maternity cover basis up to 31st December 2027.
The ideal candidate would be available to commence employment between September and October 2026.
Working closely with the Head of HR & Development, you will provide a comprehensive HR advisory service to managers and employees across the organisation, supporting the effective recruitment, development, wellbeing and retention of our workforce.
This is an excellent opportunity to apply your employee relations expertise, influence positive organisational outcomes and contribute to the delivery of key HR and learning initiatives.
About the Role
As HR & Development Adviser, you will
- Provide professional HR advice and guidance to managers on a wide range of employee relations matters, including disciplinary, grievance, capability and attendance issues.
- Lead and support end-to-end recruitment and selection activities, ensuring best practice and a positive candidate experience.
- Advise on terms and conditions of employment, flexible working requests, family leave arrangements and HR policies.
- Develop, implement and review HR policies, procedures and projects that support organisational objectives.
- Produce management information and HR statistics, including workforce reports, sickness data and statutory returns.
- Build productive relationships with managers, employees and trade union representatives.
- Line manage the HR Assistant, ensuring the efficient delivery of HR, Recruitment and Pensions administration and support.
- Support the maintenance and development of the Council’s HR and recruitment systems and e-learning platform.
- Lead on and assist the Head of HR & Development with a variety of project work linked to Local Government reorganisation.
- Represent HR on corporate groups and contribute to strategic HR initiatives.
About You
We are looking for someone who is
- CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent) with relevant HR experience.
- Experienced in providing professional HR advice across a broad range of HR disciplines.
- Confident handling sensitive and complex employee relations matters.
- Skilled at building relationships and influencing managers at all levels.
Why Join Us?
In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to work across the full HR spectrum in a supportive and collaborative environment, helping to shape employee experience and organisational success.
If you’re a motivated HR professional who enjoys variety, challenge and making a positive difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Discover what it’s like to work at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and explore the benefits we offer by clicking here: Working for us – Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council
Apply Now
To apply for or discuss the FTC HR and Development Adviser – Maternity Cover role, please click on the apply link provided.
FTC HR and Development Adviser – Maternity Cover in Kent employer: Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As an M365 IT Trainer, you will benefit from hybrid working options, engage in meaningful training initiatives, and collaborate with a dedicated team committed to enhancing technology adoption across the organisation.
Contact Details:
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FTC HR and Development Adviser – Maternity Cover in Kent
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace FTC HR and Development Adviser – Maternity Cover in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.
