Job Description

Location:

Multi-site across beautiful West Sussex (Hybrid working available)

Type:

Full-time | Permanent

Salary:

circa 35,000 per annum

Ready to Put the "Human" Back in HR?

At

Little Barn Owls

, we believe in nurturing not just the children in our care, but the people who make that care extraordinary. As our new

HR Manager

, you'll be at the heart of a multi-award-winning Early Years group, championing a culture that's as warm, inspiring, and vibrant as our nurseries.

This isn't your average HR job. You won't be stuck behind a desk pushing paper--you'll be leading people-first policies, shaping wellbeing and development, and ensuring our teams feel supported, valued, and inspired every single day.

What You'll Be Doing:

Strategic Partnering:

Help shape the future of our nursery group by aligning HR strategy with our values and child-centred ethos.

Onboarding with Heart:

Create smooth, safe, and welcoming starts for new team members.

People Championing:

Be the first port of call for employee relations, supporting managers with clarity, care, and confidence.

Compliance Hero:

HR audits and policy updates with precision.

Growth Advocate:

Lead performance reviews and nurture development pathways--from Level 3 apprentices to leadership coaching.

Diversity Advocate:

Make sure everyone is seen, heard, and supported--across every setting.

Payroll Pro:

Take full ownership of our monthly payroll with confidence and accuracy.

HR Data Guru:

Provide clear, meaningful insights to support wellbeing and strategic planning.

Why You'll Love It Here:

Make an Impact:

Your work directly supports both staff and children.

Inspire and Be Inspired:

Work alongside passionate, creative educators and leaders.

Room to Grow:

We invest in your development--from CIPD funding to mental health training.

Flexible Working:

Hybrid options and autonomy over your schedule.

Culture of Care:

We don't just talk wellbeing--we embed it in everything we do.

About You:

A confident and compassionate HR leader with multi-site experience. Solid knowledge of UK employment law, with a keen understanding of Early Years or education sector compliance (Ofsted, EYFS, DBS). Experienced in handling ER issues with integrity and professionalism. Detail-oriented with payroll and HRIS systems--but always people-first. CIPD Level 5 qualified (or training towards). Proactive, pragmatic, and passionate about supporting others to thrive.

Bonus Points If You Have:

Experience in Ofsted-regulated settings Familiarity with apprenticeships or Early Years qualification pathways

Travel + Flexibility

You'll travel regularly across our beautiful nursery settings in West Sussex--so being based nearby (or happy to commute) is essential. Some remote work and flexible scheduling are available, but this is a hands-on, people-facing role where visibility and connection matter.

Ready to Join the Team?

If you're looking for a role where HR isn't just about policies--it's about people, purpose, and positive change--we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now

and help us build a workplace where everyone--from toddlers to team members--can thrive.

Screening of applicants will be conducted on a rolling basis, and interviews will be arranged as suitable candidates are identified. Little Barn Owls reserves the right to close the vacancy at any time following a successful interview.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Childcare Employee discount Enhanced maternity leave Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Sabbatical Sick pay Work from home
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Horsham RH13 8LY

Expected start date: 15/09/2025