HR Business Partner – Full‑Time

About the role

We are seeking an experienced HR Business Partner to join a well‑established, growing organisation in Colchester. Reporting to the People Lead, you will act as a trusted advisor to managers, delivering proactive HR support across employee relations, recruitment, policy implementation and people initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Provide professional HR advice to managers and employees on all people matters.
• Handle employee relations cases, including disciplinaries, grievances, absence and performance issues.
• Ensure consistent application of policies and compliance with current employment legislation.
• Develop, review and update HR policies in line with best practice.
• Support recruitment processes: write job descriptions, advertise roles, coordinate interviews and issue offers.
• Prepare contracts and onboarding documentation for new starters.
• Maintain accurate employee records and HR documentation.
• Analyse HR data, produce reports for senior management and support initiatives to reduce sickness and turnover.
• Conduct exit interviews and contribute to retention strategies.
• Deliver guidance and training to managers as required.
• Assist with immigration compliance, audits and employment tribunal documentation.
• Visit operational sites regularly to build strong relationships with teams.

Required profile

• Previous experience as an HR Advisor or People Advisor.
• Strong employee‑relations background.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
• Experience supporting recruitment end‑to‑end.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Attention to detail and confidence using HR systems.
• CIPD qualification or working towards one is advantageous.

Required skills

• HR systems
• Microsoft Office packages

What we offer

• Competitive salary (£45,000‑£50,000 per year) plus benefits.
• Full‑time, permanent, office‑based role.