People Operations Manager

People Operations and Office Manager

£35,000 £40,000 per annum

Brighton

Ideal is an inspiring place to work. We re an award-winning, independent company, leading in our field and offering a refreshingly different experience to the larger IT solutions providers. Our team has worked on some of the biggest projects in the UK and Europe, earning a reputation for delivering smart, real-world solutions using only the best technology vendors in the business.

With expertise in Connectivity, Networks, Smart Buildings, Advanced Wi-Fi, Cybersecurity and Managed IT Services, we proudly support a diverse client base across the public and private sectors.

We re passionate about continuous learning and invest heavily in our people, supporting everything from technical certifications to soft skills and personal development. If you re looking to grow your career with a forward-thinking team that truly values innovation and impact, you ll fit right in.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and aim to offer all our staff the support they need to achieve their career goals. We particularly welcome candidates form under-represented groups in the Tech Community.

What you can expect from us:

• Training: Guaranteed investment in your personal and professional development, including 6 days paid study leave.
• Working Pattern: Flexible, office and home.
• Location: Superb, open-plan, modern office, right next to Brighton station.
• Work/Life Balance: 25 days annual leave plus flexible working opportunities.
• Wellness and Wellbeing: We take our teams health seriously. Activities, socials and coaching are routine to us.

About the Role

We re looking for a proactive and detail-driven People Operations and Office Manager to lead the day-to-day delivery of our People function and help create a positive, well-run and engaging workplace.

Reporting into the Chief People Officer, this role is responsible for delivering high-quality HR operations across the employee lifecycle. You ll be the go-to person for managers and employees on People processes, employee relations and recruitment, while partnering closely with the CPO on priorities, projects and continuous improvement.

This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys operational ownership, thrives in an SME environment, and takes pride in making things run smoothly from ER and recruitment through to culture initiatives and office operations.

This role is ideal for someone ready to step up from a People Advisor position and take on greater ownership, complexity, and impact within People Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Partner with managers to guide them through all aspects of HR policy and process, promoting best practice and ensuring compliance with employment legislation.
• Support both proactive and reactive employee relations cases, alongside the CPO, from initial stages through to resolution
• Apply knowledge and expertise in specialist HR areas, providing innovative ideas and solutions.
• Co-ordinate the recruitment process from driving innovative recruitment initiatives to attract the best talent, scheduling interviews and creating a great candidate experience.
• Prepare offers and contracts quickly and accurately, making sure all pre-employment checks are done.
• Champion our culture every day keep an eye on team vibes and step in with ideas to keep things positive and engaging.
• Keep learning on track by scheduling training sessions, tracking attendance, and working with providers to make development simple and accessible.
• Help keep everyone in the loop by supporting internal comms and making recognition feel genuine and meaningful.
• Help shape how we work by contributing to policy updates and process improvements.
• Stay on top of the details manage our HR system and make sure everything is compliant and up to date.
• Support payroll and benefits in partnership with Finance so everyone gets what they need, when they need it.
• Oversee day-to-day office operations, including facilities, supplies, and H&S compliance.

About You:

• CIPD Level 5 qualified or equivalent experience.
• Strong understanding of HR best practice and UK employment law.
• Highly organised and detail-oriented with a proactive mindset.
• Skilled at juggling multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Team player, willing to get stuck into all aspects of the role.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Comfortable with HR systems and office management tools.
• Passionate about creating a positive employee experience and vibrant workplace culture.

At Ideal, we are committed to offering a work experience that values diversity, inclusivity, and authenticity. If you're passionate about solving technical issues and thrive in a fast-paced environment, then this role is Ideal for you.