People Business Partner

People Business Partner – UK – Hybrid preferably from either Bristol, Liverpool or Tees office12 Months Fixed term Contract - maternity coverSvitzer is a leading global towage and marine services provider operating across 37 countries with over 4,000 employees. Founded in 1833, Svitzer builds on almost 200 years of experience, and our powerful tugboats and experts in towage work tirelessly to keep goods flowing, businesses thriving, and communities connected.In the UK, our people work in a demanding, safety-critical, operational environment. Supporting them well is not optional — it’s business critical.We’re looking for an operational, hands-on People Business Partner for 12 months Fixed Term Contract to cover maternity leaveLocation: Hybrid preferably from our Bristol, Liverpool or Middlesbrough office.Package includesup to 10% contributory pensionPrivate health & dental plan10% bonusOverviewWe’re looking for a commercially focused People Business Partner to step into a 12-month fixed-term role supporting operational leaders across the UK. This is a hands-on partnering role; you’ll be in the detail, driving outcomes across employee relations, change, and day-to-day HR delivery.You’ll operate in a unionised environment, so experience with trade unions and confidence navigating complex ER landscapes is a must.What You’ll Be DoingBusiness PartneringWork directly with managers and operational leaders to deliver practical people solutionsProvide clear, pragmatic advice on workforce planning, team structure, and performanceSupport delivery of key people initiatives aligned to business prioritiesEmployee RelationsLead on complex ER cases including disciplinary, grievance, and absenceEngage with trade union representatives on consultations and ongoing mattersEnsure consistent, fair, and legally compliant application of policiesSupport negotiations, consultations, and dispute resolutionChange & TransformationSupport organisational change programmes including restructures and redeploymentManage consultation processes in line with legal and collective agreement requirementsEnsure change is implemented smoothly with clear communicationRisk & ComplianceMaintain strong governance and ensure compliance with UK employment lawIdentify, manage, and escalate people-related risks where requiredWhat You’ll BringSolid experience as a People/HR Business Partner or Senior AdvisorStrong track record in employee relations within a unionised environmentWorking knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practiceExperience supporting organisational change and consultation processesAbility to influence, challenge, and build credibility with stakeholdersPragmatic mindset — you focus on solutions, not theoryWhat We’re Looking ForSomeone comfortable operating independentlyA steady pair of hands who can balance operational pressure with sound judgementClear, direct communicator who can challenge constructivelyOrganised, adaptable, and able to keep pace with a busy operational environmentThis role is about delivery. If you’re strong on ER, confident with unions, and comfortable being the go-to HR partner for the business — this role is for you.Building a Diverse WorkplaceIn Svitzer we value the diversity of our talent and will always strive to recruit the best person for the job – we value diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to gender, age, nationality, race, sexual orientation, disability, or religious beliefs. We are proud of our diversity and see it as a genuine source of strength for building high performing teams.Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that members from some under-represented groups are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t meet every single qualification. At Svitzer we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles, and we are excited about hearing from you!How to ApplyTo apply for this role, please 'Apply Now' and create a Candidate Home to manage your applications.
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