Job Description

About James Leighton

James Leighton is a multi-award-winning, fast-growing mortgage and protection brokerage. Recognised as a Top 50 UK mortgage producer and Top 5 for new build mortgage advice, we combine technical excellence with a people-first culture.

We're now seeking an experienced Human Resources & Talent Acquisition Manager to embed and lead our HR function and drive recruitment across the company. This role is based permanently in our conveniently located Head Office at J25 M1. As a front-and-centre presence in the business, you'll help shape our internal environment, support staff daily, and play a hands-on role in developing a vibrant and values-led team culture.

Key Information

Job Title: Human Resources & Talent Acquisition Manager

Basic Salary: 43,000 - 50,000 per annum dependent on experience

Location: Nottingham HQ (Office-based, full-time)

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: Monday - Friday, 40 hours per week (core hours 9:00am - 6:00pm)

Reporting to: Head of Commercial

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic HR Leadership

- Lead the embedding and development of the company's HR function
- Collaborate with directors and department heads on workforce planning and people strategy
- Ensure compliance with employment law, ACAS guidelines, and internal policy
- Oversee BrightHR usage, contracts, the staff handbook, and policy documentation

Talent Acquisition & Recruitment

- Manage end-to-end recruitment across all departments, including job advertising, screening, and interviewing
- Build talent pipelines to support future growth
- Lead onboarding and induction for new staff
- Promote James Leighton as an employer of choice

Employee Relations & Performance

- Act as the first point of contact for staff relations issues, disciplinaries, and grievances
- Liaise with outsourced legal advisers
- Guide line managers on performance reviews and capability procedures
- Support wellbeing and staff engagement initiatives

Learning & Development

- Identify training needs across departments
- Contribute to succession planning and leadership development
- Support ongoing CPD and staff progression

Required Skills and Experience

- Proven experience in a standalone HR or people function
- Hands-on experience in recruitment and onboarding
- Strong working knowledge of UK employment law and HR compliance
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills

Desirable

- CIPD Level 5 or above
- Experience in financial services or regulated environments
- Familiarity with BrightHR or similar systems

What We Offer

- 43,000 - 50,000 per annum dependent on experience
- 20 days holiday (rising with service) + bank holidays
- NEST pension scheme (3% employer contribution)
- Core Values Bonus Scheme and staff awards
- Team socials and employee referral bonuses
- A dynamic, collaborative workplace where your presence makes a visible impact daily

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 43,000.00-50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person