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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and payroll across 15 sites, shaping strategy and supporting a team.
- Company: Growing multi-site automotive business focused on people and culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £65,000 plus benefits and autonomy in your role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a people-focused environment with supportive leadership.
- Qualifications: Solid HR experience in multi-site operations and strong employee relations knowledge.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and influence within a dynamic team.
HR & Payroll Manager Automotive Multi-Site Business
We\’re working with a growing multi-site business who are looking for a HR & Payroll Manager to lead their people function across 15 sites and a headcount of around c475 colleagues.
This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a hands-on, senior role where you\’ll have real impact on shaping the HR strategy, leading a small team, and ensuring smooth payroll delivery. Sitting on the Senior Leadership Team, you\’ll be a trusted voice on all things people, culture, and compliance.
The Role
As HR & Payroll Manager, you\’ll:
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Lead on all aspects of HR and payroll across multiple sites.
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Line manage and support the HR Administrator and Trainee HR Advisor.
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Own payroll input (Sage Cloud 50) and pension processing.
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Deliver and continuously improve HR processes, policies, contracts, and handbooks.
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Oversee employee relations, including investigations, disciplinaries and liaising with solicitors on complex cases.
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Lead on TUPE transfers, acquisitions, and organisational change projects.
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Champion wellbeing with welfare policies and EAP, and improve staff survey roll-out.
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Create and deliver induction and management development programmes.
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Partner with manufacturers on apprenticeships and support health & safety guidance.
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Enhance recruitment processes and relationships with agencies.
About You
We\’re looking for a senior HR professional who:
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Has solid experience leading HR across multi-site operations.
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Brings strong employee relations and TUPE knowledge.
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Has payroll expertise
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Is confident influencing at leadership level, while still being hands-on.
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Enjoys building, coaching, and developing a team.
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Is solutions-focused, resilient, and passionate about making a positive impact on people and culture.
What\’s on Offer
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A senior role where you\’ll have autonomy and influence.
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The opportunity to make a real difference in a growing, people-focused business.
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A supportive leadership team that value HR as a key driver of success.
Salary c 65,000 + Benefits
BBBH34458
Head of HR employer: Zachary Daniels Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Zachary Daniels Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the team too. Plus, it’ll give you some great talking points!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the job description, especially around leading HR across multi-site operations and handling payroll. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR & Payroll Manager role. Highlight your experience in multi-site operations and any specific payroll systems you've worked with, like Sage Cloud 50. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about shaping HR strategy and how you can make a positive impact on our people and culture. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior HR professional, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams or influenced at a leadership level. We want to know how you can lead our HR function across multiple sites!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zachary Daniels Recruitment
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your HR knowledge, especially around multi-site operations and TUPE transfers. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your expertise in these areas.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of HR, you'll be influencing at the leadership level. Prepare to share how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in challenging situations. Highlight your coaching and development strategies for team members.
✨Be Ready for Payroll Questions
Since payroll is a key part of this role, ensure you're familiar with Sage Cloud 50 and can discuss your experience with payroll processes. You might be asked to explain how you've improved payroll delivery in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your People-Centric Approach
This role is all about making a positive impact on people and culture. Think of examples where you've championed employee wellbeing or improved HR processes. Show your passion for creating a supportive work environment.
