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At Gist, we're proud to be part of the M&S Group, the logistics engine behind M&S Food.
From our distribution centres to our transport operations and support functions, we connect people, technology and expertise to ensure the right products reach the right stores at the right time.
As we continue to invest in our people, technology and network, there's never been a more exciting time to join Gist and help shape the future of food logistics.
We’re looking for an experienced People Partner to join our team on a 12-month fixed term basis at our Faversham depot, reporting to the Senior People Partner for the South of the UK.
In this role, you’ll work closely with leaders to deliver our People priorities, providing practical, high‑quality support that strengthens leadership, performance and engagement across the site. We are building a culture that puts people at the heart of everything we do.
Our Faversham site is critical within our network, directly servicing multiple stores and being a key connector of product across our network - many Percy Pigs and Colin the Caterpillars come through here every day! It's a complex site with dual manual and automated operations and regular engagement with leaders outside of Faversham - this is a location where you'll have the opportunity to shine!
What’s in it for you?
This is a Monday – Friday site-based role in Faversham, however we are a 24/7 operation and there may be the need for the occasional evening or weekend.
As Well As a Competitive Salary, You'll Benefit From:
- 20% M&S discount on most things from furniture, fashion and food
- 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with length of service)
- Private Health Insurance
- Discounted rates on healthcare cash plan
- Attractive annual bonus scheme, based on M&S performance and personal objectives
- Auto Enrolment Pension or competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and life assurance (up to 4 times salary)
- Amazing perks and discounts via our App to major restaurants and retailers
- Access to a wide range of wellbeing support – including our Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to work scheme
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What You’ll Be Doing
- Partner closely with the General Manager to shape and deliver the People plan across the depot, using experience and data to guide decisions. As a member of the leadership team, you’ll take time to understand how the operation runs so you are credible and effective
- Lead and coach your direct report, setting clear expectations and maintaining a high standard of delivery as our service offer evolves this year
- Own delivery across the full People lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, talent / performance management, colleague engagement, safety, learning and development initiatives. Success is these being delivered well, and by the right person
- Through strong experience of ER case management, ACAS, tribunals and employment law you’ll support and develop line managers daily to make sound People decisions, dealing with issues early through clear guidance, coaching and (proportionate) challenge
- Strengthen leadership capability, performance management, succession and workforce planning so the operation has the right leaders in place for now and to achieve the M&S Food growth ambitions
- Build and maintain effective working relationships with Trade Union representatives and play a key role in maintaining positive industrial relations, including annual pay discussions
- Work closely with People colleagues and Centres of Excellence to share learnings and make sure colleagues have a consistent experience across Gist
- Maintain accurate people data for the site and use insight to support decision‑making
What We’re Looking For
- You’ll bring significant experience as a People Partner / HR Business Partner working across the full generalist remit, ideally within a logistics, retail or manufacturing environment
- You’re a visible, credible People Partner with the confidence to work closely with site leadership and influence decisions
- You’re comfortable advising and managing complex ER issues and applying employment law with sound judgement and pragmatism
- You have the ability to balance technical knowledge with practicality and hold the right person to account for delivering
- You’re confident working with people data and translating insight into action
- You’re an effective line manager who sets clear standards and supports others to deliver an evolving service offer
- CIPD qualification is desirable but not essential
- Some ad‑hoc travel to other site locations will be required
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Why Gist?
When you join Gist, you're joining a business that plays a critical role within the M&S Group.
You'll have the opportunity to influence meaningful change, work alongside experienced leaders and contribute to one of the UK's leading food supply chains.
Our culture is built around our values of being Progressive, Accountable, Collaborative and Ethical, creating an environment where people are trusted, supported and encouraged to grow.
Whether you're leading a site operation, delivering transformation or shaping future strategy, your work will make a real difference.
Our commitment to inclusion
At Gist, we believe our differences make us stronger.
We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know. We'll work with you to ensure you have the support you need.
Ready to apply?
Apply today and join a team where your contribution really matters.
If you require assistance regarding your application, please contact Lynsey at lynsey.macdonald@gistworld.com who will be able to support you.
Our Internal Recruitment Team fulfil all vacancies on a direct basis. Unsolicited contact by unapproved agencies (sharing speculative CVs) will not be accepted and introductory fees will not apply.
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