Human Resources Manager - Co. Tipperary

HR Manager - County Tipperary 

Role Overview

Working within a group HR structure, this role operates as a senior member of the site leadership team, partnering closely with operational management. The position has responsibility for leading the full HR function on-site while also supporting additional locations as required.

This is a hands-on leadership role within a large, unionised, labour-intensive environment. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the HR agenda including recruitment, employee relations, training and development, and employee engagement, with oversight of the health and safety function.

The role includes responsibility for a workforce of 400+ employees operating in a daytime, single-shift environment, as well as providing HR support to satellite locations.

Key Responsibilities

Workforce Planning & Reporting

• Manage site headcount, including daily reporting, analysis, and workforce planning.
• Oversee attendance management processes and systems.
• Maintain and ensure accuracy of workforce management systems.

Recruitment & Onboarding

• Lead end-to-end recruitment to meet operational requirements.
• Manage agency relationships, recruitment initiatives, and referral programmes.
• Oversee permit application and renewal processes where applicable.
• Ensure all employees are correctly onboarded, registered, and set up on payroll systems.
• Manage and continuously improve the induction process in collaboration with relevant departments.

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Support and coach managers on employee relations matters, ensuring best practice people management.
• Oversee disciplinary and grievance processes, ensuring consistency, fairness, and compliance.
• Build strong working relationships with employee representatives and trade unions.
• Promote a positive workplace culture aligned with organisational values.

Performance & Development

• Support performance management processes including probation reviews and development plans.
• Ensure Personal Development Plans (PDPs) are implemented across all levels.
• Oversee training needs analysis and delivery of effective learning solutions.
• Manage training budgets and liaise with external providers and funding bodies where appropriate.

HR Operations & Administration

• Ensure accurate maintenance of employee records and HR systems.
• Provide regular reporting on key HR metrics including headcount, absenteeism, and turnover.
• Manage internal communications and support employee engagement initiatives.

Compliance & Policy

• Ensure compliance with all employment legislation and internal policies.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of legislative changes and implement required updates.
• Support policy development and ensure consistent application across sites.

Compensation & Workforce Management

• Support the implementation and maintenance of pay structures and grading systems.
• Review working hours, overtime, and workforce metrics to ensure compliance and fairness.

Health & Safety & Risk

• Work closely with site management and safety teams to support a strong safety culture.
• Monitor and follow up on incidents, claims, and risk-related activities.

Continuous Improvement & Projects

• Support change management initiatives and organisational development projects.
• Participate in group HR activities and ensure alignment with broader HR strategy.

Key Relationships

• Site leadership and operations teams
• Line managers and supervisors
• HR, payroll, and training teams
• Health and safety function
• External recruitment partners
• Employee representatives and trade unions

Candidate Requirements

• Relevant HR qualification
• Minimum 5 years’ HR experience, including at least 3 years in a management role
• Experience in a labour-intensive, operational environment (e.g. manufacturing, logistics, retail or similar)
• Proven experience working in a unionised environment
• Strong knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practice
• Demonstrated ability to coach and support managers in people management
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills
• Hands-on, proactive approach with a focus on continuous improvement

Additional Information

• Full-time, on-site role
• May require occasional travel to support additional locations