We are Hestia. We make a difference.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a HR Business Partner – Wellbeing, Reward & Benefits Lead to play a pivotal role in our Central Services in London.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

This role is a comprehensive HR Business Partner position responsible for aligning HR strategy with the operational and strategic goals of Hestia. The postholder will work closely with designated client groups to support organisational change, including restructures, TUPE processes, and the implementation of new services. A key aspect of the role is coaching and supporting line managers to lead inclusively and in alignment with the organisation's values, as well as helping embed learning and development initiatives across teams. The role also champions Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), wellbeing, and reward and benefits.

The role involves providing expert HR guidance on employee relations and employment law, particularly in complex or sensitive cases. This includes managing issues such as conduct, performance, absence, grievances, and whistleblowing. As a member of the Resolution Hub, the HR Business Partner also leads mediation and conflict resolution efforts. The role ensures that HR practices are legally compliant and reflective of Hestia's values, collaborating with other departments to continually improve and align the people strategy.

In addition, the postholder oversees wellbeing and benefits initiatives, maintaining internal platforms and working with third-party providers. They use data to monitor engagement and uptake, guiding improvements and equipping managers with the tools to support staff effectively. The role also includes project management responsibilities, such as vendor transitions and scheme enhancements, to strengthen Hestia's overall employee value proposition.

The HR Business Partner will also take a lead in business change processes, ensuring due diligence during TUPE and structural changes, while facilitating smooth onboarding and offboarding experiences for staff. Externally, they may represent the organisation as the main HR contact. Data analysis and reporting are essential, with the postholder tracking key HR metrics and contributing to both internal and external reports, such as those for the Charity Commission.

Finally, the role involves supporting broader HR functions, including recruitment and HR operations, as well as chairing and coordinating team meetings. There is a strong emphasis on contributing to and leading EDI and anti-racism strategies, supporting internal network groups, and collaborating with Hestia's recognised trade union, Unison. This is a dynamic and impactful role that requires strategic insight, strong interpersonal skills, and a proactive, values-led approach to HR.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

The ideal candidate for this role will bring substantial experience as an HR Business Partner, ideally gained in a fast-paced, change-driven environment. They will have led on key people-focused areas such as wellbeing, reward, and benefits, and possess a strong background in managing complex HR issues. With at least 5 to 7 years of experience in HR Business Partnering or as an HR Manager, they will be adept at supporting organisational change and driving strategic people initiatives.

They will be fully CIPD qualified, preferably to Level 7, and demonstrate a deep knowledge of employment law. Their experience will include leading TUPE transfers, managing restructures, and handling redundancy and consultation processes. The role requires someone with excellent communication and problem-solving skills, who can build strong, trusted relationships with stakeholders while offering challenge and support when necessary.

Attention to detail, strong numeracy, and excellent written English are all essential. The candidate will also need to be IT literate and comfortable working with data. A sound understanding of safeguarding is required, and prior experience working in the charity or public sector would be advantageous.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.