People Adviser

Provide a range of People advice to Directorates, working closely with the People & Culture Team to implement the people agenda and address all associated matters in accordance with best practice methodology, internal compliance and legal requirements. Support the delivery of the People & Culture Strategy and work in such as way that proactively supports pace, innovation and customer service in the People service delivery .

Duties and key result areas:

Act as the first point of contact for managers and employees, providing advice on HR matters including employee relations, disciplinaries, grievances, absence management, performance, and change initiatives.
Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and act as a champion for People Operations.
Advise Directors and managers on terms and conditions of employment, employment legislation, and People policies, mitigating risks and resolving matters.
Provide guidance on employee relations casework, including disciplinaries, grievances, dignity at work, performance management, TUPE, redundancy, recruitment, and retention.
Attend internal hearings and provide advice on HR matters to panels, including disciplinary actions, grievances, and absence management.
Work with Directors and managers to implement national, regional, and local initiatives within your area of expertise.
Offer innovative solutions that align with the operational and strategic goals of Directorates, adding value to service delivery.
Provide accurate workforce data to support decision-making regarding sickness absence, turnover, and staffing needs.
Support change initiatives by advising on change management processes.
Develop and review People policies, ensuring they reflect the latest legislative changes.
Contribute to People & Culture projects, including the delivery of service improvement initiatives.
Partner with OD, Acquisition, DE&I, and Wellbeing colleagues to provide integrated People & Culture services.
Support the implementation of DE&I strategies, promoting an inclusive culture and ensuring transparent, non-discriminatory practices.
Deputise for the People Partners as required.
Mentor Assistant People Advisers and People Graduates.
Develop and deliver training on HR policies and procedures.
Maintain accurate work records, observing data protection and confidentiality standards.
Represent the County Council at local, regional, and national levels in relation to service activities and policies.
Attend and contribute to relevant committees, meetings, and task groups.

Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resources or equivalent demonstrable portfolio of experience. Evidence of continued professional development (CPD).
A sound working knowledge of employment legislation, good People practice and policies and management procedures, gained via significant previous experience of working in a People environment.
Previous working knowledge of the public sector.
Effective negotiating/influencing skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
All tasks to be undertaken with a high degree of speed and accuracy
Excellent organisational skills, with ability to plan and co-ordinate activities
Ability to build and maintain credibility with line managers
Ability to analyse and make judgements involving complex facts or situations
Ability to supervise staff
Is an effective advocate for the People service and organisation both internally and externally.
Maintains a professional demeanour in stressful and difficult situations.
Normally works from a seated position with some need to walk, bend or carry items. Need to maintain general awareness with lengthy periods of enhanced concentration.
Pragmatic approach to deal with complex, difficult and emotional situations.
Contact with staff/public/clients in dispute with the County Council.
Tenacity and resilience.
Commitment to the values of the People function and to professional development of self and others.
Ability to work with a team of staff whilst maintaining an independent role
Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
Dependable, reliable and keeps good time.