HR Manager

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