Senior HR Advisor – Engagement & Development (Maternity Cover)

About the role

This is a 12‑15 month senior HR advisory position covering employee relations, policy development, learning, engagement and wellbeing. The role is a long‑term fixed‑term maternity cover, based in Southampton with occasional work in London, and operates on a hybrid model (60% office, 40% home).

Key responsibilities

• Manage end‑to‑end employee‑relations cases, including investigations, disciplinary and grievance processes.
• Advise managers on performance management, capability, probation and flexible‑working requests.
• Oversee sickness absence and wellbeing cases, ensuring early and effective resolution.
• Maintain accurate case records and produce investigation reports.
• Conduct exit interviews and analyse recurring themes.
• Monitor UK employment‑law changes, brief senior stakeholders and update HR policies.
• Draft new policies and translate legal requirements into practical business advice.

Required profile

• Commercially astute HR professional with solid experience in employee relations and employment law.
• Ability to balance legal compliance, employee needs and business priorities.
• Strong communication and coaching skills for senior managers.
• Proactive, pragmatic approach to policy development and implementation.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary up to £50,000 per year.
• Completion bonus of £3,000 upon successful contract finish.
• Full‑time schedule, Monday‑Friday.
• Hybrid working arrangement (60% office, 40% remote).
• Opportunity to work within a respected professional services organisation during a period of cultural development.