HR Manager Job Description and Profile

The HR Manager job description outlines a senior HR role for experienced HR professionals who can manage core people functions, shape HR policy and partner with leaders to deliver workforce objectives. Candidates with a strong background in employee relations, talent management and HR compliance should apply.

HR Manager Job Profile

The HR Manager is responsible for leading day to day human resources activities to support the organisation's objectives, ensure compliance with employment law and maintain effective employee relations. This role provides operational HR services and advisory support to managers while developing and implementing HR policies and programmes.

The post-holder will combine practical HR administration with strategic input to workforce planning, performance management and talent development. The role typically requires working closely with senior leaders, line managers and external advisors to deliver consistent, fair and efficient people solutions.

HR Manager Job Description

An HR Manager oversees the end to end employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding through to performance management and exit processes. The role involves designing and applying HR policies, conducting investigations where required, and advising managers on day to day employee matters to reduce risk and promote positive working relationships.

In this position the HR Manager will be expected to maintain accurate HR records, produce regular reporting and workforce metrics, and support continuous improvement in HR processes. The role requires balancing operational tasks with project work, such as implementing new HR initiatives, reviewing reward frameworks and supporting learning and development plans.

Strong stakeholder engagement, clear communication and sound judgement are essential. The HR Manager must act with confidentiality and professionalism while supporting a culture of performance, inclusion and well being across the organisation.

HR Manager: Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage end to end recruitment and selection activities, including shortlisting, interviewing and offer processes.
• Coordinate induction and onboarding to ensure new starters integrate effectively and comply with organisational requirements.
• Advise managers on employee relations matters, disciplinary and grievance procedures, and conduct investigations when necessary.
• Implement and maintain HR policies, procedures and employee handbooks to ensure consistent practice and legal compliance.
• Manage performance management processes, including appraisals, objective setting and performance improvement plans.
• Support talent development and learning activities by identifying training needs and coordinating development plans.
• Maintain accurate personnel records and ensure confidentiality of employee information.
• Prepare HR metrics and reports for senior management to inform workforce planning and decision making.
• Ensure compliance with employment law and statutory obligations, liaising with external advisors where appropriate.
• Oversee payroll and benefits administration processes in collaboration with payroll providers or finance teams.
• Manage HR projects, such as policy reviews, organisational change and culture initiatives.
• Provide coaching and guidance to line managers on people management, workforce planning and employee engagement.
• Coordinate employee exit processes including exit interviews and fulfilment of contractual requirements.
• Support health and safety and wellbeing programmes in partnership with relevant stakeholders.

HR Manager: Requirements and Qualifications

• Degree in human resources, business administration or a related discipline, or equivalent professional qualification.
• Professional HR qualification such as CIPD Level 5 or equivalent is desirable.
• Minimum five years practical HR experience, including casework and advisory responsibilities.
• Proven experience of managing recruitment, performance management and employee relations.
• Good working knowledge of employment law and HR best practice in a UK context.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Confidentiality and sound judgement when handling sensitive matters.
• Ability to analyse HR data and produce clear management reports.
• Experience of implementing HR policies and delivering HR projects.
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise competing demands.
• Proficiency in standard office software and aptitude for working with HR information systems.
• Commitment to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.