HR Advisor with Visa Sponsorship

Job Title: HR Advisor with Visa Sponsorship
Hiring Company: Ipswich Borough Council
Location: Ipswich, Suffolk, United Kingdom
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary Range: £32,000–£36,000 per annum (dependent on experience).

About Ipswich Borough Council

Ipswich Borough Council is a progressive local aut+-hority serving the vibrant community of Ipswich, Suffolk. With a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, Ipswich is a town that blends historic charm with modern innovation. The council is committed to improving the lives of its 140,000 residents through high-quality public services, sustainable development, and community engagement.

Our Human Resources (HR) team plays a pivotal role in shaping the council’s workforce, ensuring we attract, retain, and develop talented individuals who share our values of integrity, inclusivity, and excellence. As part of our ongoing commitment to diversity and global talent, we’re excited to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

The Role: HR Advisor

We’re seeking a proactive and empathetic HR Advisor to join our HR team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about people management, employee relations, and organisational development. You’ll provide expert HR support to managers and staff across the council, ensuring compliance with employment law and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Why this role matters:

• Support the council’s mission by ensuring we have a skilled, motivated, and diverse workforce.
• Play a key role in resolving employee relations issues, from grievances to performance management.
• Contribute to strategic HR projects, such as workforce planning and employee engagement initiatives.

Visa Sponsorship:

Ipswich Borough Council is proud to sponsor skilled workers under the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa program. We provide comprehensive relocation support, including visa guidance, temporary accommodation assistance, and help settling into Ipswich’s welcoming community.

Key Responsibilities

Employee Relations

• Provide expert advice and guidance to managers on HR policies, employment law, and best practices.
• Manage employee relations cases, including disciplinary actions, grievances, and absence management.
• Ensure fair and consistent application of council policies and procedures.

Recruitment & Onboarding

• Support recruitment campaigns, from job adverts to interviews, ensuring a positive candidate experience.
• Conduct right-to-work checks and manage visa sponsorship processes for international hires.
• Deliver induction programs to help new employees integrate into the council.

Learning & Development

• Identify training needs and coordinate development programs to enhance employee skills.
• Support the implementation of leadership development initiatives and succession planning.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.

HR Administration

• Maintain accurate HR records using the council’s HR information system (e.g., iTrent).
• Prepare reports on HR metrics, such as turnover rates, absence levels, and recruitment progress.
• Ensure compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations.

Strategic Projects

• Contribute to the development and implementation of HR strategies aligned with the council’s goals.
• Support diversity and inclusion initiatives to create a more equitable workplace.
• Participate in organisational change projects, such as restructuring or digital transformation.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience

• Education: CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent experience in HR.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills for building trust with employees and managers.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to handle sensitive issues with tact and professionalism.
• Organisation: Strong time management and attention to detail.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience working in local government or the public sector.
• Knowledge of HR information systems (e.g., iTrent, Oracle HR).
• Multilingual skills to support Ipswich’s diverse workforce (e.g., Polish, Punjabi).

Why Join Ipswich Borough Council?

Impactful Work

• Play a key role in shaping the council’s workforce and culture.
• Support initiatives that improve the lives of Ipswich residents, from housing to environmental sustainability.

Benefits & Culture

• Salary & Progression: Competitive pay + annual increments and opportunities for career advancement.
• Flexibility: Hybrid working (3 days office-based, 2 remote) + flexitime options.
• Pension: Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with 19% employer contribution.
• Wellbeing: Free gym access, mental health support, and subsidized childcare.
• Leave: 25 days annual leave + public holidays, rising to 30 days after 5 years.

Life in Ipswich

• Affordable Living: Lower housing costs than London, with vibrant waterfront apartments and suburban homes.
• Culture & Nature: Explore Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Museum, and the Suffolk Coast AONB.
• Connectivity: 1-hour train to London, 45 minutes to Cambridge.

Application Process

• Submit Your CV and Cover Letter: Highlight your HR experience and passion for public service.
• Online Assessment: Scenario-based test on employee relations and HR policies.
• Panel Interview: Discuss your approach to HR challenges with senior HR and council leaders.
• Offer & Relocation: Visa sponsorship and settling-in support confirmed within 4 weeks.

Contact:
Laura Bennett, HR Manager
Email: hr.careers@ipswich.gov.uk
Phone: +44 (0)1473 432000

Address:
Ipswich Borough Council
Grafton House, 15–17 Russell Road
Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2DE
United Kingdom