GEA

People Business Partner

Milton Keynes Full time
GEA is one of the world’s largest systems suppliers for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical sectors. Our portfolio includes machinery and plants as well as advanced process technology, components and comprehensive services. Guided by a strong sense of purpose, our more than 18,000 dedicated employees work to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of production processes globally.

Responsibilities / Tasks

This role provides HR partnership to two Divisions based in Warrington and Sittingbourne, with scope across the UK and Ireland (scope may be subject to change in line with business needs). Regular travel to these sites, including periodic travel to Ireland, is an essential part of the role. The People Business Partner acts as a trusted advisor to divisional representatives and managers, ensuring that HR initiatives are aligned with business strategy.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as a strategic and trusted partner to leaders within scope, supporting the alignment of HR activities with divisional and organisational priorities.

  • Drive the implementation of core HR processes—including performance management, workforce planning, talent development, and succession planning.

  • Support global governance processes such as position approvals, compensation changes, and related topics, ensuring adherence to global policies and HR FTE reporting guidance.

  • Represent the HR agenda in divisional meetings, ensuring HR priorities are effectively communicated and embedded.

  • Provide HR coaching and support to business leaders, offering expertise on people and cultural matters as well as technical and regulatory aspects of employment (e.g., hiring, termination, performance management, rewards).

  • Enable business change by supporting the talent implications of organisational design changes, mergers and acquisitions, and other transformation activities.

  • Provide guidance on HR policies, procedures, and employment legislation.

  • Support employee engagement initiatives and contribute to a positive and inclusive employee experience.

  • Lead or support investigations, grievances, and disciplinary processes when required.

Collaboration & Operational Delivery

  • Work closely with HR Operations and Centres of Excellence to deliver efficient, end-to-end HR services.

  • Ensure compliance with local employment law and global HR standards.

  • Contribute to both global and local HR projects as assigned by the line manager.

  • Facilitate the delivery of global annual HR processes (e.g., salary reviews, Perform & Grow, Leadership Review) by coordinating with the People Business Partner team and providing clear communication and support to managers and employees.

  • Prepare reports and complete required data submissions for the global organisation or upon request from the manager.

  • Act as a “buddy” for new colleagues or apprentices, when requested, to support onboarding and integration.

Your Profile / Qualifications

  • University degree or master’s degree in Psychology or Human Resources.

  • CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent), or currently working towards completion.

  • Comprehensive and current knowledge of UK and Irish employment law, as well as a solid understanding of HR practices and HR systems.

  • At least 10 years’ experience in an HR Business Partner function.

  • Solid understanding of core HR disciplines, including employee relations, talent acquisition, performance management, compensation & benefits, and learning & development.

  • Proficiency in HRIS platforms (e.g., Workday, SAP) and related reporting tools.

  • Expertise in data-driven HR decision-making, including the use of metrics and analytics to generate insights.

  • Experience working in an international HR environment with exposure to different cultural contexts.

  • Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development in HR-related areas.

  • Strong communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills.

  • Experience supporting managers with day-to-day HR matters and operational planning.

  • Proven experience in compensation management, including salary review processes, bonus calculations, and market analysis.

  • Strong analytical and data interpretation skills.

  • Ability to meet the travel requirements of the role, including regular travel to Warrington and Sittingbourne and occasional travel to Ireland.

Did we spark your interest?
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