The title
This role can exist under the title of HR business partner, a role generally differentiated by a closer alignment to the business, and usually with no team reporting in.
What you need
You will have a good first degree, usually in HR, social sciences or law. A masters degree in law or an HR-related subject is an advantage, but not essential. A graduate or member of the CIPD, you will have a minimum of five years’ generalist HR experience, operating at a senior level. A pharmaceutical background is advantageous – in particular, past experience of working with technical staff, such as lab technicians.
For processing sites, industry-specific experience of manufacturing is usually essential. You will need effective problem management and resolution skills, as well as a thorough understanding of employment law (particularly disciplinary, grievance and performance management) and be able to deal effectively with all levels of management.
What is involved
Your day-to-day role will be very different depending on your environment – you could be at a head office or on a manufacturing site. Larger companies tend to have head-office functions, where you will spend a lot of time working with professionally qualified chemists at a strategic level, or managing a specific department. On a manufacturing site, there will usually be strong links with health and safety and trade unions.
You will provide a generalist HR service, encompassing recruitment and selection (including job analysis, job descriptions, job postings and interviews), employee relations, change management, performance management and discipline and grievance.
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You will play an active role with the business and support business strategy and objectives, requiring strategic and operational skills and ability.
