Penguin Random House UK
Human Resources Advisor
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Human Resources Advisor
HR Advisor – Penguin Random House (Fixed Term, 12 Months)
About the Role
What does great HR mean to you? At Penguin Random House, we believe it’s about striking the right balance—supporting the business while challenging it, keeping things simple and human, and striving to make a difference in every aspect of working life.
We’re seeking an HR Advisor to join our team in Frating (Colchester) and support the Distribution and Finance Services Division. This 12-month fixed-term contract position will allow you to make an impactful contribution across the employee lifecycle while nurturing strong working relationships within our business.
Key Responsibilities
HR Support & Advisory Role
- Report to the HR Business Partner, working closely with managers and employees in the Distribution & Finance Services division.
- Deliver thoughtful, practical HR advice grounded in deep knowledge of the business.
- Support managers in handling people matters and applying HR policies and practices effectively, helping to build their confidence over time.
Full Employee Life Cycle Support
- Act as the first point of contact for managers, covering a wide range of responsibilities:
- Talent management
- Reward & recognition
- Employee relations, including sensitive topics like wellbeing
- Onboarding guidance for new staff
Key Focus Areas
- Welcoming new starters and ensuring a seamless onboarding experience.
- Partnering with the Learning & Development team to support employee growth and agility.
- Supporting career progression and personal development initiatives.
- Managing family leave policies, including parental leave, to support colleagues through major life transitions.
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Soft Skills & Approach
- Play an integral role in the employee journey, from day one to long-term progression, guiding both managers and staff.
- Thrive in a busy, dynamic environment—defining priorities, delivering creative solutions, and balancing immediate needs with strategic planning.
What You’ll Bring
Essential Criteria
- Proven experience in a generalist HR role, including direct manager support.
- Hands-on experience with HR matters, such as:
- Disciplinary processes
- Grievances
- Absence management strategies
- Supporting parental leave and family leave policies
- A solid understanding of employment law and best-practice HR frameworks.
- Union relations experience, including dealing with collective bargaining or employee representation.
- HRIS familiarity, such as user-level experience on systems like Sapphire or Oracle.
- Strong relationship-building skills to collaborate across diverse business units.
- A proactive mindset, committed to ongoing professional development.
- Effective time management and priority-setting to navigate competing demands.
Preferred (but not essential)
- CIPD qualifications, representing a professional edge in HR standards.
About You
You’re a people-focused professional who enjoys the flow of a varied workload. Whether supporting managers or helping employees at pivotal moments, you bring:
- Practical problem-solving skills
- Empathy and active listening—especially in sensitive matters
- Appreciation for creativity, collaboration, and diverse perspectives.
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** Benefits & Approach to Work**
- Salary: Up to £35,000, alongside bonuses and a wide range of competitive benefits.
- Flexible Work: While based in Frating’s office (3 days/week), work also includes occasional attendance at our London (Embassy Gardens) location and in-office days to foster connection and celebration.
- Flexibility: Your day-to-day location will be tailored to support business priorities while balancing your managing work and personal needs.
Disability Support
As a Disability Confident employer, we commit to interviewing candidates with disabilities who meet the essential criteria and have self-disclosed so. If you require reasonable adjustments for the application process, please contact: PRHCareersUK@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk.
How to Apply
Submit your CV and cover letter—highlighting your fit—by 23:59 (UK time) on Thursday 16th July 2026. Tell us why you’re the right choice in your own words.
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