HR Manager – Build a HR Function

About the role

Our client, a well‑established manufacturing business in Blackburn, is looking for an experienced HR Manager to build and lead a standalone people function. You will work closely with the Board and senior management, shaping HR strategy while staying hands‑on across the employee lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement HR policies, processes and systems that meet legal requirements and support business objectives.
• Act as trusted advisor to the Board and senior leaders on all people matters.
• Lead employee‑relations cases, including disciplinaries, grievances, investigations and occupational health referrals.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, induction and workforce planning.
• Support succession planning for operational and technical roles.
• Identify training needs and coach managers to improve leadership capability.
• Drive employee engagement, wellbeing and internal communication initiatives.
• Maintain HR systems and ensure accurate employee records.

Required profile

• Proven experience building or scaling an HR function in a manufacturing or similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment legislation and HR best practices.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and balance strategic thinking with operational delivery.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Required skills

• HR policy development
• Employee relations management
• Recruitment and workforce planning
• Succession planning
• Training and development
• HRIS administration

What we offer

• Competitive salary £50,000‑£65,000 per year
• Benefits package
• Autonomy to shape the HR function
• Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership