Job Description

Location

: Maiden Law, County Durham

Contract

: Full-Time, Permanent

Application Deadline

: 18.08.2025

Vita Nova, a forward-thinking organisation headquartered in Maiden Law, County Durham, is seeking an accomplished

Human Resources Manager

to lead our HR function with strategic vision and a touch of charisma. If you're an HR professional with a passion for fostering talent, ensuring compliance, and cultivating an inclusive workplace, this senior management role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

About Vita Nova

At Vita Nova, we pride ourselves on our dynamic and inclusive culture, where every team member is empowered to thrive. Based in the heart of County Durham, we are committed to excellence, collaboration, and innovation. As our HR Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in aligning our people strategy with organisational goals, ensuring our team remains engaged, supported, and ready to excel.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Recruitment

: Design and execute recruitment strategies to attract exceptional talent, managing the full cycle from job postings to candidate selection while championing diversity and inclusion.

Seamless Onboarding

: Develop comprehensive onboarding programs to integrate new hires effectively, collaborating with our Training & Development Manager to deliver engaging induction sessions.

Payroll Precision

: Oversee payroll processes in partnership with the Director of Operations, ensuring accurate and timely payments while maintaining compliance with HMRC regulations.

Leave Management

: Administer employee leave policies (annual, sick, maternity/paternity) with fairness and accuracy, maintaining meticulous records.

Performance Excellence

: Implement robust performance management systems, supporting goal-setting, appraisals, and training initiatives to drive employee development.

Employee Engagement

: Act as a trusted advisor for employee relations, resolving concerns and fostering a positive workplace through team-building and recognition programs.

Legal Compliance

: Ensure adherence to UK employment laws, including the Equality Act 2010, GDPR, and Health and Safety at Work Act, while keeping policies up-to-date and contracts compliant.

Data & Insights

: Generate HR analytics (e.g., headcount, turnover, absenteeism) for senior leadership, safeguarding employee data in line with data protection laws.

Strategic Vision

: Partner with senior leaders to align HR strategies with organisational objectives, driving workforce planning, succession strategies, and retention initiatives.

Additional Duties

: Manage employee benefits, oversee HR budgets, maintain HR systems, and represent Vita Nova in external HR networks to stay ahead of industry trends.

What We're Looking For

Essential Qualifications & Experience

A degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years' experience in an HR management role, with expertise in recruitment, employee relations, and compliance. In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices. Proven experience managing payroll processes and HR systems.
Desirable Qualifications & Experience

Level 5 or Level 7 qualification in Leadership & Management. Experience in strategic HR planning and workforce forecasting. Familiarity with HR software platforms.
Skills & Competencies

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels. Strong organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail. Discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information. Proactive problem-solving and decision-making abilities under pressure. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (HR software experience is a plus).
Working Conditions

Location

: Based at Vita Nova's head office in Maiden Law, County Durham.

Hours

: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, Monday to Friday, with occasional evening or weekend work for events or urgent matters.

Travel

: Some travel may be required for recruitment events, training, or external meetings.
Why Join Vita Nova?

Impactful Leadership

: As a senior manager, you'll shape our HR strategy and influence our organisational culture.

Collaborative Environment

: Work with a supportive, passionate team dedicated to excellence.

Competitive Rewards

: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, and comprehensive benefits package.

Growth Opportunities

: Access continuous learning and development to advance your career.

A Touch of Fun

: Join a workplace that values your expertise--and appreciates a well-timed HR pun.
How to Apply

Ready to lead with purpose? Submit your CV and a cover letter showcasing your expertise and personality to ian.marshall@vitanovane.co.uk or alternatively, apply through this channel and a member of the team will be in touch.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From 40,000.00 per year

Additional pay:

Bonus scheme Loyalty bonus Performance bonus Yearly bonus
Benefits:

Additional leave Bereavement leave Casual dress Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Enhanced maternity leave Enhanced paternity leave Free or subsidised travel Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Referral programme Sick pay
Schedule:

Day shift Monday to Friday
Education:

Bachelor's (preferred)
Experience:

Human resources: 5 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 18/08/2025
Expected start date: 05/01/2026