HR Manager

Job overview

The HR Manager is a senior operational leadership role within the People Employment Team, responsible for delivering a high‑quality, person‑centred HR service across the Trust. Working closely with the Head of HR Operations, the postholder leads and manages HR staff, provides expert advice on complex employee relations matters, supports workforce planning and organisational change, and ensures HR policies, procedures and practices comply with employment legislation, NHS terms and best practice. The role plays a key part in supporting managers, staff and trade unions to deliver effective employee relations and workforce outcomes that align with Trust priorities and values.

Main duties of the job

The postholder will lead and manage the HR operational team to deliver a high‑quality, customer‑focused HR service across the Trust. Key duties include providing expert advice and support to managers on complex employee relations matters such as disciplinary, grievance, absence, capability and change management; supporting workforce planning and recruitment activity; developing, reviewing and implementing HR policies and procedures in line with employment law and best practice; building effective working relationships with managers and trade union representatives; overseeing HR performance management information; contributing to organisational change initiatives; and deputising for the Head of HR Operations where required.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The HR Manager will lead the delivery of an effective, high‑quality HR operational service across the Trust, ensuring best practice employee relations and workforce outcomes. The postholder will manage and support HR staff, providing professional leadership, supervision and development to ensure consistent, timely and customer‑focused service delivery. They will act as a key operational contact for managers, providing expert advice and support on complex employee relations matters including disciplinary, grievance, absence, capability and organisational change, ensuring compliance with employment legislation, NHS terms and Trust policies.

The role includes developing, reviewing and implementing HR policies, procedures and employment practices to support organisational strategy and legal compliance; contributing to workforce planning, recruitment and retention initiatives; and working in partnership with managers and trade union representatives to promote positive employee relations. The postholder will analyse and interpret workforce data, produce performance management reports, lead or contribute to service improvement projects, and support senior management with strategic HR initiatives. They will deputise for the Head of HR Operations as required and represent the HR function at meetings and panels across the organisation