Cambridge (Hybrid – Tues/Weds onsite)

9–12 Month FTC / Interim Considered

Our client is seeking an experienced HR Manager to lead HR operations across the UK & Ireland (c.100 employees) during a maternity cover period.

This is a standalone UK lead role with full responsibility for Employee Relations, HR governance, and operational HR delivery across three UK legal entities. Two entities are already aligned; the third will be integrated into the wider HR framework as part of this role.

The HR Manager will work closely with senior stakeholders and oversee payroll and HR administration delivered via a Shared Services team based in India.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead UK Employee Relations matters (redundancy, capability, settlement agreements)
• Integrate the third UK entity into existing HR policies and processes
• Oversee payroll validation and HR administration (via offshore support)
• Manage UK visa processes and right-to-work compliance
• Lead benefits renewals and support harmonisation where appropriate
• Maintain and update HR policies and procedures
• Provide support to Ireland and potentially support the Netherlands
• Deliver employee support and wellbeing initiatives
• Support local engagement events (e.g., Christmas activities)
• Travel to Donnington (near Derby) once per month

About You

• Strong UK ER experience, able to work autonomously
• Solid knowledge of UK employment law and HR compliance
• Experience managing payroll oversight and benefits
• Confident advising senior stakeholders
• Hands-on, pragmatic, and solutions-focused
• Comfortable in a hybrid and matrixed environment

What’s on Offer

• High-autonomy, standalone role
• Exposure to senior stakeholders
• Flexible structure: full-time, part-time, or interim considered
• Immediate start preferred