We are seeking a solutions-focused, high-calibre People Partner to join the Athena People Team. You will be instrumental in ensuring operational excellence across our homes, providing the expert guidance our Home Managers need to confidently lead their teams, manage risk, and deliver the Exceptional Care & Experience that Athena is known for.
About Athena Care Homes
Athena Care Homes is an award winning, family-owned business operating seven residential nursing homes in East Anglia where care and compassion runs through to our very core.
At Athena we celebrate everyone as an individual. Whether that’s delivering authentic care, supporting our team to make moments for our residents and their loved ones, or whether that’s learning and growing together.
About the Role
As a trusted People Partner, you will provide comprehensive HR support across a range of areas including employee relations, organisational development, performance management, change management, and people strategy initiatives. You will play a key role in supporting managers through complex people matters while also contributing to wider strategic projects that enhance employee experience, engagement, and organisational effectiveness. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys balancing operational HR with strategic project work in a rewarding and purpose-driven sector.
Hours
37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday – 9am to 5pm.
Salary
£55,000 per annum.
Location
Central Support Office, Southfields Business Park, Hornsby Way, Laindon, SS15 6TF. This is a full-time office based role with travel to our care homes as and when needed.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide expert HR advice and support to managers on employee relations matters, including disciplinary, grievance, absence, and performance cases.
- Partner with care home leadership teams to deliver practical people solutions that support operational and organisational goals.
- Lead and support People initiatives and projects aligned to the wider People Strategy, including engagement, talent, and organisational development.
- Ensure consistent application of HR policies, procedures, and UK employment law across assigned homes.
- Support positive workplace culture through coaching, change management, performance support, and employee engagement initiatives.
Training, Skills & Experience Required
- Essential Experience: You must hold CIPD Level 7 (or be actively working towards it) and have a proven track record as a high-level HR generalist or specialist, confidently managing complex ER end-to-end. In-depth, current knowledge of UK employment law is non-negotiable. Experience in the Care Sector or a multi-site operational environment is a significant advantage.
- The Right Mindset: You are intensely pragmatic and solutions-focused, able to balance immediate operational needs with necessary risk mitigation. You must be an effective coach and communicator, building immediate credibility with operational leaders.
- A Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential, as this is a regional role requiring some travel to all sites across East Anglia.
What we can offer
- A warm and thorough induction to help you feel confident, connected, and supported from day one.
- A competitive salary, reflecting the value and expertise you bring to our team.
- 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, giving you time to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most.
- Free Blue Light Card membership with access to a wide range of discounts and savings.
- A generous Refer-a-Friend scheme, because great people know great people and we love welcoming them to Athena.
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