The HR & Governance Officer is responsible for maintaining efficient administrative systems and providing day-to-day HR & Governance support to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), departmental managers, and employees. This role plays a key part in developing and maintaining an employment framework that reflects best practices, legal compliance, and the values of the Cathedral. This role will also assist the COO in governance work including the organisation and administration, including minute taking, of the committees for which they will have lead responsibility and development and maintenance of key compliance policies and requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Recruitment & Onboarding
Assist managers in preparing job descriptions, person specifications, and advertising materials.
Coordinate job postings on the Cathedral's website and relevant platforms.
Issue application forms and oversee the recruitment process, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Conduct pre-employment checks, including DBS clearance, right-to-work verification, and reference checks.
Prepare offer letters, contracts of employment, and communicate with successful/unsuccessful candidates.
Organise onboarding and induction for new employees.
Monitor probationary periods and support managers in addressing training or performance issues.
Payroll & HR Records Management
Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing in collaboration with the Finance Department and payroll bureau.
Maintain confidential and up-to-date employee records in compliance with data protection regulations.
Provide payslips and payroll information to employees.
Periodically review HR record-keeping practices for compliance and efficiency.
Employee Relations & Support
Advise managers and employees on employment policies, legal requirements, and best practices.
Support in resolving employee issues, including grievances, disciplinary matters, and absence management.
Serve as an independent resource for employees to discuss concerns.
Work with external HR advisors (NatWest Mentor) on complex employee relations matters.
Assist in organisational change initiatives, ensuring compliance with employment laws.
Employment Framework & Compliance
Regularly review and update the Employee Handbook and employment policies in line with legislative changes.
Ensure HR policies, job descriptions, and performance review processes align with the Cathedral's culture and objectives.
Support managers in communicating policies effectively.
Learning & Development
Identify organisational training needs and coordinate the delivery of training programs.
Maintain training records and ensure compliance with mandatory training requirements.
Support employees in professional development and career growth.
Work with managers to develop individual employee development plans.
Performance Management
Assist managers in implementing performance management processes, including appraisals and feedback.
Support in addressing performance issues and developing improvement plans where needed.
Ensure consistency and fairness in performance-related decisions.
Governance
Organisation and administration, including minute taking, of certain committees within the Cathedral and related charities
Development and maintenance of policies both within the Cathedral and, as designated, other related charities
Reviewing compliance with Charity Commission and Church of England governance requirements and advising appropriately
Health & Safety Compliance
Collaborate with the Health & Safety Officer to ensure policies are communicated and adhered to.
Maintain records of mandatory Health & Safety training and notify managers of required updates.
Support managers in ensuring employees meet all safety training requirements.
General HR & Governance Support & Projects
Lead or contribute to HR & Governance projects aimed at improving processes and employee engagement.
Perform other duties as required to support the Cathedral's mission and operations.
Person Specification:
Essential Skills & Experience
CIPD qualification (Level 3 or higher) or working towards it.
Strong understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices.
Understanding of Charity Commission requirements
Proven experience in HR administration, recruitment, and employee relations.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
High level of confidentiality, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with managers and employees.
Strong organisational and time management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and HR systems.
Desirable Skills & Experience
Experience working in a not-for-profit, faith-based, or heritage environment.
Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations relating to employment.
Our Vision Statement:
Our priority is that everyone who comes into contact with the Cathedral and its people for any reason at all will know that they are welcomed, valued and cared about so that they catch a glimpse of God's love for them personally.
This is achieved through:
Great staff and volunteers motivated to be the best they can be.
The living out of our common values in all that we do.
Frictionless hospitality and welcome to all.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: 30,000.00-32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Canteen
Company events
Company pension
Discounted or free food
Free parking
On-site parking
Schedule:
Monday to Friday
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Hereford HR1 2NG