HR Business Partner (Central Functions) 

Position Overview 

The HR Business Partner for Central Functions will play a pivotal role in supporting the core functional teams of Compass Group and Foodbuy. This position is responsible for providing proactive and pragmatic HR support to management and leadership teams, ensuring the effective delivery of people strategies that align with business objectives. The HRBP will be instrumental in fostering a positive work environment, driving employee engagement, and supporting the continuous development of both individuals and teams. 

Key Responsibilities 

Day-to-Day People Support: 

• Act as the first point of contact for HR-related queries and issues for Central Functions management
• Provide guidance on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, ensuring compliance with legal and company standards
• Support the management of employee relations cases, such as disciplinary, grievance, and performance matters, ensuring fair andtimelyresolution
• Assistin managing absence, return-to-work processes, and occupational health referrals asrequired

Management & Leadership Support: 

• Partner with managers and leaders to understand business needs and deliver tailored HR solutions.
• Offer coaching and advice to management on people management,support andsignpost talent development, and succession planning.
• Assistin the implementation of organisational change initiatives, including restructures, TUPE transfers, and other transformation projects.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and learning acrossFoodbuy andCentral Functions.

Recruitment & Onboarding: 

• Support recruitment activity by advising on job descriptions, interviewing, and selection processes.
• Assistin benchmarking positions to ensure consistency and fairness.
• Facilitate effective onboarding and induction for new starters to ensure a smooth transition into the business.

Performance Lead: 

• Assistmanagers with the performance review process, including settingobjectivesand providing constructive feedback.

• Identifytraining and development needs, coordinating learning opportunities and supporting career progression.
• Analyse HR metrics toidentifytrends and recommend actions for improvement.

Employee Engagement & Wellbeing: 

• Support initiatives that drive employee engagement, wellbeing, and a positive workplace culture
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion acrossthe organisation.

Skills and Experience 

• CIPD qualified (or equivalent experience) with a strong understanding of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Proven experience in a HRBP or generalist HR role, ideally within a large, fast-paced organisation.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a pragmatic approach to resolving complex issues.
• Confident in managing multiple priorities and working autonomously.
• Experience supporting central or support functions (e.g. Finance, IT, Procurement, HR, Marketing) is desirable.

Key Competencies 

• Business acumen and commercial awareness
• Influencing and coaching skills
• Attention to detail and organisational skills
• Resilience and adaptability
• Commitment to confidentiality and ethical practice

Location & Working Arrangements 

This role is based in the Central Functions offices (Birmingham, London, Chertsey), with flexibility for hybrid or remote working as appropriate to business needs.