HR Business Partner

A hands-on, operational HR Business Partner role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, supporting a large, site-based workforce through change and growth. This is a highly visible, influential role suited to someone who enjoys being on the ground, working closely with operational leaders and managing the realities of a unionised, blue-collar setting. Client Details Our client is a well-established manufacturing organisation based in Huddersfield, currently experiencing a period of transformation and growth. With a strong operational footprint and a long-standing workforce, the business is focused on improving engagement, capability and performance while modernising its people practices. This is an excellent time to join and play a key role in shaping the HR function at site level. Description Reporting into the HR Manager, you will partner with site leadership to deliver a consistent, pragmatic and commercially focused HR service. You'll support managers across the full employee lifecycle, balancing day-to-day employee relations with broader people initiatives. Once embedded, the role will be roughly split 50% employee relations and 50% broader HR activity, including workforce planning, development initiatives and change programmes. Key responsibilities Partner with operational managers to deliver people strategies aligned to business objectives Lead and manage complex employee relations cases from investigation through to outcome and appeal Coach and support line managers on performance, absence, conduct and capability issues Support organisational change activity including restructures, shift patterns and contract changes Drive engagement, development and retention initiatives across a diverse and ageing workforce Oversee and improve onboarding, training and development processes Embed and maintain effective performance management practices Contribute to HR reporting, analysing trends in absence, turnover and performance Support payroll processes and ensure accuracy and compliance across HR systems Build strong relationships with employees, managers and trade union representatives where applicable Deputise for the HR Manager as required Profile The ideal candidate Proven experience in a generalist HR role within a manufacturing, operational or site-based environment Strong working knowledge of UK employment law with confidence handling complex ER cases Experience working in a unionised environment (highly advantageous) CIPD Level 5 qualified (or working towards) Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, hands-on setting with evolving systems and processes Strong Excel and HR data analysis capability Proactive, resilient and able to operate with a high level of autonomy Confident communicator with the credibility to influence at all levels Job Offer Competitive salary ranging from £50,000 to £55,000 per annum. 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays, with flexibility to swap days) Flexi-time scheme - up to an additional 12 days off per year Enhanced pension - up to 8% employer contribution On-site gym Flexible working (4 days on-site, 1 day WFH)If you are ready to take the next step in your HR career, apply today to join this well-regarded organisation