HR Senior Adviser
About TRL
TRL is a global leader in transport innovation, dedicated to creating cleaner, safer, and more efficient transport solutions. We work across the public and private sectors, leveraging evidence-based research to drive sustainable, accessible transportation for all.Our diverse and inclusive workplace values flexibility and offers comprehensive benefits to support your professional and personal growth.
About the Role
As Senior HR Adviser at TRL, you will oversee the daily operations of a busy HR function, delivering a high-quality HR service to the organisation’s managers and employees. The role involves supporting both operational and strategic needs, ensuring alignment with our business growth objectives.You will serve as the first point of contact for line managers on HR-related matters, providing proactive guidance on employee relations, retention, performance, and health & well-being. Working closely with our HR team, you will maintain HR processes and ensure compliance with legal standards, while driving improvements across the organisation.
The successful candidate will be based at our headquarters in Wokingham, with flexible and hybrid working arrangements. This role is on a 6-month fixed term contract basis.
Key Responsibilities
As Senior HR Adviser, you will:- Be the first point of contact for line managers on HR-related matters, including conducting HR inductions for new starters.
- Provide proactive support and advice on employee relations, performance management, retention, and health & well-being.
- Manage sickness absence, ensuring appropriate steps are taken for long-term cases, including occupational health referrals and reasonable adjustments.
- Collaborate with the Talent Acquisition & L&D Lead and Payroll & Benefits Specialist to ensure efficient HR service delivery.
- Lead HR audits and compliance initiatives, ensuring legal and policy adherence.
- Support payroll and benefits administration, deputising for the Payroll & Benefits
- Deputise for the Director of HR, ensuring smooth continuity of HR services.
- Develop and monitor HR KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
- Partner with the Payroll & Benefits Specialist to ensure the HRIS (CIPHR) system provides efficient people information and reporting.
Skills & Experience
We are seeking candidates who:- Hold CIPD Level 5 or equivalent HR experience.
- Have experience supporting managers with people management processes, employee relations, and HR projects.
- Possess strong knowledge of employment law, ensuring compliance across all HR functions.
- Are skilled in using HR information systems (HRIS) and have a solid understanding of payroll processes and be capable of delivering monthly processing as required.
- Excel in communication, both written and verbal, and can confidently engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Are proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and demonstrate strong analytical abilities and attention to detail.
- Have a proactive, solution-focused mindset with strong attention to detail and a commitment to continuous self-development.
- Are adaptable, tenacious, and results-driven, with a professional and client-focused approach.
What We Offer
At TRL, we believe in creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We offer flexible working arrangements, including part-time, hybrid, and job-sharing options, from day one.
Our benefits package includes:- Competitive salary
- 25 days of annual leave (with the option to buy additional days)
- Matched pension contributions
- Life assurance and income protection
- Healthcare cashback scheme
- Ongoing support for professional development, including support for professional memberships
We welcome passionate and driven HR professionals — if you're ready to make a meaningful impact and thrive in a dynamic, flexible environment, we encourage you to apply.