Job Description

Company Overview

Ambala Foods Limited, commonly known as Ambala, is a UK-based confectionery company specialising in South Asian sweets (Mithai) and savory snacks. Founded in 1965 by Mohammed Ali Khan, the company has grown from its first store in London's Drummond Street to a network of 22 retail outlets across the UK, supported by a modern manufacturing facility in Welwyn Garden City. Ambala employs around 182 people and is renowned for its high-quality traditional products, popular during cultural celebrations such as Eid and Diwali. In March 2025, Ambala was acquired by Cake Box Holdings plc, marking a strategic move to expand both brands' reach. The company remains a trusted name within the British Asian community, blending heritage with modern retail strategies.

Job Purpose

The People Operations Assistant supports the People Operations team in delivering a seamless employee experience throughout the employee lifecycle. This role ensures accurate administration of HR processes, systems, and employee data, assisting with onboarding and offboarding. The position will also be the first point of contact for employee queries and will support employee relations queries. In addition, the role plays a key role in fostering a positive workplace culture by ensuring operational efficiency and supporting initiatives that enhance employee engagement and well-being.

This position is ideal for someone looking to progress their HR/People career who is highly organised, discreet, and service?focused.

Duties & Responsibilities

You must demonstrate and maintain the highest level of confidentiality. You will be a skilled communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills. Main responsibilities:

HR administration: Maintain HR software and update required changes in a timely manner, with monthly reporting as requested. Provide full administrative support on HR projects (arranging meetings, booking rooms, taking minutes, preparation of documentation/reports/data entry) to a high standard. Respond to incoming calls and correspondence. Appropriately referring/escalating any complex matters to the People Operations Manager. Assisting with preparations and note-taking in disciplinary, capability, and grievance meetings. Any other administration support as required. Take ownership of all paperwork received by HR, ensuring it is actioned in a timely manner. Support recruitment, assist in producing adverts for recruitment campaigns and scheduling candidates for interviews. Coordinate onboarding processes, including contracts, ID, right to work checks, induction and system access. Ensure all employee files are fully up to date with all relevant documents signed. Payroll support: Assist with payroll processing and ensure timely submission of data, verify timesheets, overtime, and leave records for accuracy. Coordinate with finance or payroll providers to resolve discrepancies. Respond to employee payroll queries and maintain confidentiality.

Person Specification

Strong organisation and time management skills High level of attention to detail and accuracy Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills Comfortable and confident with dealing with employees at all levels Comfortable to learn and use new HR Systems, databases and processes Motivated and hard working Use of initiative proactively Flexible and adaptable High level of personal integrity and discretion Empathic and caring approach, particularly over sensitive issues Effective team player with a collaborative approach Respectful, trustworthy and impartial Commitment to continuous improvement, learning and development

Experience

Previous experience in HR support, administration, or people operations (2 years minimum). Experience with employee onboarding, data entry, and document management. Experience of handling confidential and sensitive information Awareness of UK Employment practices, such as right to work and contracts

Qualifications

CIPD Level 3 (or working towards) or Level 5 (Desirable) Qualification in Business Administration, HR, or a related field.
'Join us in creating sweet moments! If you are passionate about supporting a warm, family-like environment while ensuring smooth operations, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 32,000.00-35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking
Work Location: In person