Job Description
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HR Business Partner
Salary: £51,216 per annum
Based at Harlow College
Full Time
Permanent
We have an exciting opportunity to join Harlow College as an HR Business Partner, playing a key role in supporting our managers, leaders and staff across the whole organisation. As part of a forward-thinking HR team, you will be at the heart of driving positive workplace culture, organisational effectiveness and exceptional people practices.
We're looking for an experienced and proactive HR professional who thrives on building strong relationships, managing complex employee relations matters and partnering with leaders to deliver successful outcomes. If you're looking for a role where your expertise, ideas and influence will truly matter, we'd love to hear from you.
About the Role
As HR Business Partner, you will provide expert advice and guidance across the full spectrum of employee relations matters, including disciplinary, grievance, performance management, absence management, organisational change and restructures.
Working closely with senior leaders and managers, you will coach, challenge and support them to build high-performing teams, navigate complex people issues and ensure compliance with employment legislation and College policies.
This is an influential role with significant responsibility. You will deputise for the Executive Director of HR when required and lead the operational delivery of HR services across the College. From overseeing the employee lifecycle, recruitment and HR compliance to data reporting and safeguarding, you will help ensure our people processes are effective, compliant and fit for the future.
You will also lead and develop the HR team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and outstanding customer service.
What We Are Looking For
The successful candidate will:
Be CIPD qualified to at least Level 5.
Have extensive current experience operating within an HR Business Partner or equivalent senior generalist HR role, ideally within Further Education or the wider education sector.
Be experienced in managing a busy employee relations caseload.
Have experience of working effectively with Trade Unions.
Possess extensive knowledge of employment law and its practical application.
Demonstrate significant experience managing complex disciplinary, grievance, organisational change and restructuring processes.
Have experience of leading, coaching and developing staff.
What We Can Offer
In return, you'll join a supportive organisation that is committed to investing in its people. We will support your continued professional development.
Our excellent benefits package includes:
35 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays.
A day off for your birthday.
Additional 15 days of paid time off at Easter and Christmas.
Generous pension scheme.
Employee wellbeing initiatives and support.
Ready to Join Us?
Click thelink or copy it into your browser:https://harlow-college.current-vacancies.com/Jobs/Advert/4330125?cid=3512&t=HR-Business-Partner
Don't delay applying as we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. Early applications are therefore strongly encouraged.
Closing Date: Monday 12th October 2026
PLEASE DO NOT APPLY DIRECTLY THROUGH ESSEX SCHOOLS JOBS AS YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE PROCESSED
Harlow College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.
We are an equal opportunities employer and an Investors in Diversity Silver Award holder, dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and communities.