Human Resources Manager

Thompson Wright is a people-focused accountancy firm with a collaborative and supportive working environment. We take pride in creating a culture where our teams feel valued, supported and able to develop their careers.

We are looking for an experienced and motivated HR Manager to join our growing team and based at our head office in Newcastle under Lyme. As the firm’s sole HR representative, you will handle core HR operations while also owning key areas such as recruitment, employee relations, performance management, learning and development, compensation and benefits, and HR compliance. This role is critical in shaping and advancing our evolving people strategies and supporting the firm’s continued growth.

This stand-alone position is highly autonomous and requires resilience, strong judgment, comfort operating independently, and the ability to build scalable HR practices from the ground up. You’ll have the opportunity to drive meaningful improvements, partner closely with Directors and department managers, shaping HR processes that support a high-performing and engaged workforce. Your work will directly influence the employee experience, organisational culture, and the firm’s long-term talent strategy.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement HR strategies, policies, and procedures that align with the firm’s objectives, comply with UK legislation, and foster an inclusive, positive workplace culture.

• Support the full recruitment process as needed and take ownership of onboarding to deliver a smooth, engaging new-hire experience.

• Work closely with Directors to ensure people practices support business priorities and maintain a consistent, high-quality management approach.

• Advise Directors, managers, and employees on HR matters including employee relations, performance management, and disciplinary processes.

• Partner with Directors and managers to conduct performance evaluations, set clear goals, and implement effective development plans.

• Oversee compensation and benefits programs, ensuring structures remain fair, competitive, and aligned with firm standards.

• Support the design and delivery of internal learning and development initiatives to strengthen skills, knowledge, and engagement.

• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records, ensuring optimal use of the firm’s HR Information System.

• Monitor and interpret employment law developments to ensure compliance and reduce risk.

• Guide Directors and managers through grievance, conflict, and investigation processes, ensuring objective handling and appropriate recommendations.

• Anticipate HR needs and identify opportunities for improvement that support the firm’s growth and long-term people strategy.

• Continuously evaluate HR processes for efficiency and scalability, recommending improvements that strengthen the employee experience and operational effectiveness.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, CIPD qualification (minimum L5 or equivalent) preferred. Relevant experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in an HR management role, ideally within a professional services environment (eg, accountancy, finance, legal, or consulting).

• Strong, relevant and up-to-date knowledge of HR best practices, UK employment law, and regulatory requirements.

• Broad understanding of core HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, learning and development, and compensation and benefits.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships at all levels and the ability to foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team environment.

• Comfortable operating autonomously and making informed HR decisions with minimal supervision.

• Demonstrated experience managing employee relations issues and effectively resolving conflict.

• High level of professionalism and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information.

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.

• Proficiency with HRIS platforms and other HR-related software tools.

Thompson Wright offer a competitive compensation and benefits packages along with opportunities for professional growth and development. Join our team and contribute to our success as a trusted and leading professional accountancy practice.

• Starting salary £48,000
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• BUPA healthcare cash plan 
• People's Pension contributions  

• Flexible/Hybrid working options (after a qualifying period)
• TOIL system
• Ongoing training
• Buy/sell holiday policy (after a qualifying period)
• WOW team treats 
• Summer social event & Christmas Party
• Dress for your day policy
• Cycle to work scheme