Senior People & Culture Business Partner – Maternity Cover (12 months)

About the role

HCL is seeking an experienced Senior People & Culture Business Partner to cover a 12‑month maternity leave. Reporting to the Head of People & Culture, you will lead the Business Partner team and provide strategic HR guidance across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the People & Culture Business Partner team.
• Provide strategic HR advice to managers and senior leaders.
• Manage complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, capability and safeguarding matters.
• Lead organisational change projects, restructures and TUPE transfers.
• Support talent management, succession planning and performance initiatives.
• Review and develop people policies to ensure legal compliance and best practice.
• Analyse HR data and deliver insights to support business decisions.
• Champion a positive, inclusive and purpose‑led culture.

Required profile

• CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent).
• Strong experience managing complex employee relations cases.
• Proven track record supporting organisational change and TUPE processes.
• Excellent knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
• Strong stakeholder management, coaching and influencing abilities.
• Confidence using HR data and analytics to drive improvement.
• Ability to build credibility quickly with senior leaders.

Required skills

• Expertise in employee relations and grievance handling.
• Experience delivering organisational change and restructuring.
• Proficiency in HR policy development and compliance.
• Analytical skills for HR data interpretation.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and pension scheme.
• Life Assurance and Employee Assistance Programme.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.
• Values‑driven environment supporting schools and local communities.
• Opportunity to make a real impact on organisational culture.