Job Description

HR Manager – 12-Month Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover)

Location: Derby

Start Date: End of July (early start negotiable)

Salary: £40,000 – £50,000 (depending on experience)

Contract: Fixed term – 12 months | Full-time, office-based (Occasional Flex, Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm)

An established engineering group is seeking a confidential and experienced HR manager. This is an opportunity to join a dynamic organisation on a 12-month contract, working closely with senior leadership to help shape the future of the business.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the C -suite, you will lead the implementation of a new HR system (MidlandHR), drive strategic HR initiatives, and oversee key aspects of the employee lifecycle. You’ll play a vital role in both HR operations and people strategy at a time of significant growth and change.

Key Responsibilities:

* Lead the implementation of MidlandHR across the organisation

* Design and deliver effective recruitment strategies and onboarding processes

* Oversee payroll systems, benefits administration, and compliance measures

* Manage offer letters and contracts for salaried employees

* Create and roll out structured training and development programmes

* Develop HR policies and procedures that support compliance and performance

* Manage employee relations, including grievances, performance issues, and engagement

* Align HR initiatives with overall business goals, using data to inform decision-making

* Provide regular reporting to senior leadership

* Support with general HR administration as needed

* Occasionally travel to project sites or to our Limerick Head Office in Ireland

Essential Experience & Qualifications

* Strong, up-to-date knowledge of UK Employment Law (essential)

* Ability to develop HR policies, manage employee relations, and lead strategic initiatives

* High level of professionalism and ability to maintain confidentiality

* Strong IT skills, including Word, Excel, and ideally HRIS systems (MidlandHR experience desirable)

Desirable Experience

* Familiarity with Irish Employment Law

* Background in construction or engineering sectors

* Confident communicator with strong organisational skills

What’s On Offer

* Competitive salary (£40,000–£50,000 depending on experience)

* 12-month fixed term contract with potential for extension

* Pension scheme with 7% employer contribution

* 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro-rata; 3 days allocated for Christmas closure)

* Private healthcare and life assurance

* Opportunity to make a lasting impact during a period of strategic growth

* Collaborative and forward-thinking working environment