Location: Saffron Walden Type: Permanent Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:30pm Salary: Competitive Job Reference: 35904 Polytec are seeking an experienced HR Manager to join our Saffron Walden based client. This is a hands-on and varied generalist role, ideal for someone who enjoys building processes, supporting people, and shaping culture within a scaling business. You will take ownership of the full employee lifecycle and play a key role in developing a supportive, high-performing working environment. Responsibilities Manage the full employee lifecycle, including onboarding, probation, performance reviews and offboarding Act as the primary HR contact for managers and employees, providing guidance and support Develop and maintain HR policies, procedures, and the employee handbook in line with UK employment law Advise on employee relations matters and coach managers on best practice Oversee payroll input and employee benefits, working with finance and external providers Maintain accurate HR data, systems and documentation Coordinate learning and development initiatives to support employee growth Lead employee engagement activities and contribute to a positive and inclusive culture Support leadership with workforce planning and organisational development Ensure compliance with health and safety and other statutory requirements Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the organisation Requirements Broad HR generalist experience, ideally gained in a start-up, scale-up, or d