HR Business Partner – 6‑month Fixed‑Term Contract

About the role

We are looking for an experienced HR Business Partner to join Oakleaf Partnership on a 3‑to‑6‑month fixed‑term contract. Based in Peterborough with three days a week on‑site, you will work closely with senior leaders to provide strategic and operational HR support, focusing on high‑risk employee relations matters.

Key responsibilities

• Act as a trusted HR advisor to managers and senior leaders, delivering commercially‑focused people advice.
• Lead and manage complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, capability, absence, restructuring and investigations.
• Provide expert guidance on UK employment law and HR policy, ensuring compliance while balancing business needs.
• Coach and support managers to build capability in handling people‑related issues.
• Identify risks, trends and opportunities in employee relations and workforce management.
• Conduct sensitive investigations and support formal hearings, appeals and consultations.
• Analyse ER data, recommend improvements to engagement and risk mitigation.
• Support organisational change initiatives and workforce planning during the contract period.
• Collaborate with the wider HR team to deliver a consistent, high‑quality service across locations.

Required profile

• Proven experience as an HR Business Partner in a complex, fast‑paced environment.
• Significant expertise in employee relations, capable of handling high‑risk cases independently.
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment law and current HR best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to partner with senior leaders and influence decision‑making.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £52,000‑£60,000 (dependent on experience).
• Fixed‑term contract of 3‑6 months.
• Hybrid work model – three days on‑site in Peterborough, remote flexibility for the remaining days.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact employee relations cases and influence senior stakeholders.