HR Manager

Job Description

HR Manager Glasgow, Hybrid ( 3 days in office) Permanent Syme Drummond is excited to partner with our valued SME customer to recruit an experienced, people-focused HR Manager. This role offers the chance to lead a small HR team and drive both strategic and operational HR initiatives across a diverse UK workforce of 115 employees and over 300 contractors. This position goes beyond traditional policy management – it’s about being hands-on, visible, and actively shaping a progressive, inclusive culture from within. If you thrive in a fast-paced, generalist HR environment, are confident managing complex employee relations, and have a solid understanding of employment law, this role is an ideal fit. You’ll play a pivotal role in fostering a positive workplace culture, combining variety with meaningful impact in a highly visible and influential position. You’ll collaborate closely with the UK Director of Finance & Administration and maintain regular contact with the US-based headquarters, making this a unique opportunity to blend practical HR delivery with strategic leadership. What You’ll Do

Dive into day-to-day HR operations – this is a hands-on role, where you’ll be actively engaged with employees and managers on the ground. Lead, mentor, and develop a small, capable HR team, supporting their professional growth while ensuring high-quality service delivery. Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, offering expert guidance on employee relations, employment law, organisational change, and HR best practices. Champion an inclusive, engaging workplace culture through impactful Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) initiatives and ongoing employee engagement activities. Support workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, and succession strategies with a forward-thinking approach. Manage policy updates, HR data, and reporting, ensuring compliance, confidentiality, and consistency at all times.

What We’re Looking For

A well-rounded HR generalist with substantial, hands-on experience across the entire employee lifecycle. Strong knowledge of UK employment law and confidence in navigating complex employee relations. Proven line management experience with the ability to coach and develop a small team while remaining operationally involved and responsive. (Essential) A natural relationship-builder with excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution abilities. Culturally aware, emotionally intelligent, and dedicated to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace. Ideally CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent) and proficient with HR systems and Microsoft Office.

If you’re looking for a truly hands-on HR leadership role where you can shape culture, grow a team, and be part of something meaningful, then we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or reach out to for more information.