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HR Advisor (12m FTC)
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HR Advisor (12m FTC)
HR Advisor – Distribution & Finance Services Division
What great HR means
Is it striking the right balance between supporting your business and challenging it? Is it keeping things human and making a difference throughout working life? If your answer is yes, this role could be the perfect match.
About the Role
We’re seeking an HR Advisor to join our team at Penguin Random House in Frating, Colchester, in a 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting to the HR Business Partner, you’ll provide practical HR advice to managers and employees across our Distribution and Finance Services Division, gaining deep familiarity with the business areas.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting managers in applying HR policies and practices effectively
- Acting as the first point of contact for people matters
- Handling a broad range of HR functions:
- Talent management and recruitment
- Reward and employee relations
- Coaching managers through complex issues (e.g., wellness)
- Career progression and succession planning
- Overseeing the employee life cycle, from onboarding to family leave support
- Collaborating with Learning & Development to enable growth
You’ll be the lifeline for over 400 colleagues, offering practical solutions while aligning with the strategic needs of the business.
Responsibilities
- Day-to-day HR advice: Provide expert guidance to managers and employees on HR policies, working practices, and employee relations.
- Talent management: Assist in recruitment, onboarding, and supporting career development.
- Employee relations: Manage areas such as disciplinaries, grievances, absence, and sensitive matters (e.g., parental leave).
- Wellbeing support: Offer guidance on wellness, work-life balance, and career progression.
- Policy enforcement: Ensure compliance with HR best practice and employment law contracts.
- Relationship-building: Foster networks across divisions and with Learning & Development.
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Requirements
Essential
- Experience in a generalist HR role, including direct manager alignment.
- Exposure to core HR disciplines including:
- Disciplinaries and grievances
- Absence management
- Parental leave administration
- Union-related matters
- Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
- Proficiency with HRIS (Human Resource Information Systems).
- Ability to build cross-functional relationships and collaborate effectively.
Preferred
- CIPD qualification (a plus for career progression).
Key Traits
- Proactive mindset and enthusiasm for developing your HR career.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise tasks.
- Confidence in balancing operational support with strategic needs.
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Flexible Working
- Hybrid model: Frating office for 3 days per week, with occasional travel to London (Embassy Gardens).
- Office culture emphasises flexibility, collaboration, and work-life balance.
Benefits
- Salary: Up to £35,000 (depending on experience), plus performance bonus.
- Family-friendly policies (e.g. career progression, leave support).
- Hybrid working arrangement with the option for creative flexibility.
AI & Authenticity Notice
We value human creativity at Penguin Random House. AI tools can be used for feedback, but ensure your submissions (CV and cover letter) reflect your true experience and personality. We encourage you to show your unique voice during the hiring process.
Disability Confident Commitment
As a Disability Confident Committed employer, we guarantee interviews to all candidates with disabilities who meet the essential criteria (ask about adjustments via email at: PRHCareersUK@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk).
How to Apply
Submit your CV + cover letter explaining why you’re perfect for this role by: 23:59 on Thursday, 16 July 2026.
Applicants: apply for this posting as a Contract (Tagged: Leadership).
Data Privacy Note
Your application data will be processed for recruitment purposes. Details can be found [here]([Data Protection Policy URL]).
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