Job Description

###

Description

A little bit about us:

East West Rail is an infrastructure programme linking communities between Oxford and Cambridge. The area is currently let down by a lack of transport choices, and we have a once in a generation opportunity to fix that - improving prosperity for people and places along the way.



East West Railway Company (that's us) was created by the Department for Transport (DfT) to oversee the delivery of East West Rail from construction through to wheels in motion, making sure the railway comes together in the right way.



At East West Railway Company, we're committed to building an inclusive railway for all. We believe that to do that, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the UK communities that we impact. Our approach is simple - to create an environment where everyone is welcome and able to be themselves. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications of all backgrounds and experiences.

Role Summary:

This is not your standard HR Business Partner role.



Are you a people-focused individual who loves both the operational and strategic sides of HR? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments, constantly seek ways to improve, enjoy tackling complex people challenges, and want to be a true generalist - rolling up your sleeves to support the team wherever needed?

###

Key Responsibilities

Working closely with our Senior HR Business Partner, you'll help drive a high-performing, inclusive culture. As part of a small but perfectly formed team, you'll be a true team player with opportunities to both lead projects and provide hands-on support. Provide advice to line managers in talent management, performance, employee relationships and team engagement ensuring alignment and consistency in people processes Coach, support and challenge line managers to build confidence, capability, and accountability through effective education, tools, and guidance Partner with managers on workforce planning, talent development, and team performance Build line manager capability by equipping managers to lead with confidence and impac Support the full employee lifecycle, from onboarding and development to progression and offboarding Manage complex employee relations (ER) cases with confidence, offering expert guidance while proactively identifying and resolving issues before they escalate. Lead core people operations, including drafting and reviewing employee letters, updating HR systems, and supporting monthly payroll checks Continuously improve HR policies, processes, and practices to meet evolving business needs Proactively identify and address people risks before they escalate into issues Leverage people data and insights to inform decision-making and enhance the employee experience Lead and support key People Team projects and initiatives aligned with business goals Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across all levels of the organisation.


###

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Proven HR experience

at a generalist or business partner level, with a strong background in employee relations

Thrives as a true HR generalist

, with the flexibility to switch gears and jump in wherever neede

Loves having a hand in everything

- comfortable juggling a wide range of people topics, both big and small

Able to influence and advise

with both credibility and empathy

Skilled in coaching and developing managers

, helping them grow confidence and capability

Continuous improvement mindset,

always looking for smarter, more effective ways to do things

Comfortable with ambiguity and change

, and not afraid to roll up your sleeve

Detail-oriented

, with a hands-on approach to people operations

Genuine passion

for people, culture, and delivering high-impact HR


###

Benefits

What we offer:

Competitive base salary Up to 12% employer's pension contribution 36 days holiday a year (including bank holidays) + up to 2 days to buy Life assurance Employee Assistance Programme Access to a range of benefits on the Perkbox platform On-the-spot and annual awards Advanced learning and development programmes Great work-life balance and flexible working opportunities Enhanced family-friendly policies Exceptional IT tools



EWR Co strives to embrace a flexible working environment, where a degree of flexibility is maintained to accommodate both the needs and preferences of employees and what is required to achieve business objectives. EWR Co will always work with any individual to assess and accommodate an individual's work life balance and style.

Diversity and Inclusion:

To discover the best solutions, it's important we embrace diversity of thought. That's why we aim to ensure our colleagues feel included, engaged and valued. Inclusiveness is not a buzzword, but a way of being. Our approach to diversity is simple - a workplace where everyone is welcome and everyone is encouraged to be themselves. It helps fuel our innovation and connects us with the customers and communities we serve.



We are open to secondments through the Rail Industry Talent Exchange Programme.###

About East West Rail

East West Railway Company is a new and exciting venture at the forefront of the changing landscape of the rail industry, delivering substantial fast-paced improvement to modernise the railway.