We are seeking a commercially minded, operationally savvy HR Business Partner to be our dedicated in-market HR presence in Germany. This is a critical, standalone generalist role that sits at the intersection of operational HR delivery and strategic people partnership.Reporting into the European HR function (UK-based), you will be the primary HR contact for Germany – embedding global and regional people initiatives on the ground, owning the full employee lifecycle, and ensuring our people practices are consistently compliant with German employment law. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy while remaining closely aligned to the broader international HR team.TasksGerman Employment Law & ComplianceAct as the in-market subject matter expert on all aspects of German employment law, including the Arbeitszeitgesetz (AZG), Betriebsverfassungsgesetz (BetrVG), Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG), Kündigungsschutzgesetz (KSchG), and TzBfGEnsure all employment contracts, policies, and practices are compliant and reflect current German legal requirementsManage Betriebsrat (works council) relations where applicable, including consultation and co-determination obligationsAct as first point of escalation for complex employee relations matters, disciplinary proceedings, and potential tribunal risk; engage external German employment counsel as neededKeep the UK/global HR team proactively informed of German legislative changes and their operational implicationsAct as first point of escalation for complex employee relations matters, disciplinary proceedings, and potential tribunal risk; engage external German employment counsel as neededKeep the UK/global HR team proactively informed of German legislative changes and their operational implicationsStrategic HR Business PartnertingPartner with the Germany General Manager and senior operational leaders as a trusted people advisor, providing insight and challenge on workforce planning, talent, and organisational effectivenessTranslate UK-led and global people strategy into localised implementation plans, balancing global consistency with German legal and cultural requirementsSupport leadership capability development; coach managers on people management practices, performance conversations, and change leadershipContribute to headcount planning, restructuring, and workforce change programmes as they arisePayroll & Benefits ManagementOwn end-to-end monthly payroll for Germany in partnership with the payroll provider, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and full statutory compliance (Lohnsteuer, Sozialversicherung, etc.)Serve as the primary liaison between the business, the payroll bureau, and where relevant, the UK finance teamManage the German benefits portfolio including occupational pension (bAV), health provisions, and any market-specific allowances, ensuring competitiveness and complianceDue to character limitations, the full job description cannot be displayed here. ProfileEssential Experience & KnowledgeMinimum 5 years' HR generalist/HRBP experience, with substantial experience gained in GermanyDemonstrable, in-depth knowledge of German employment law (including BetrVG, AZG, KSchG, AGG, TzBfG, BEEG, SGB)Proven experience managing German payroll (in-house or bureau-managed) and benefits administrationExperience with Time & Attendance systems and German working time complianceTrack record of partnering with operational/line managers in a fast-paced, consumer-facing or hospitality/retail/QSR environment preferredExperience working within a matrix organisation and influencing remotely without direct authorityHands-on experience managing works council (Betriebsrat) relationships and co-determination processesStrong track record of delivering cross-border HR projects and rolling out global/regional initiatives locallySkills & CompetenciesFluent in German and English (written and spoken) – both are essential for this roleCommercially minded with a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to HRHighly organised; comfortable working with senior leaders in Germany and across bordersAnalytical and data-literate; comfortable with HR metrics and payroll dataTrustworthy and discreet in handling sensitive employee and commercial informationSelf-starter with the resilience and adaptability to operate as a standalone HR presence in-marketDesirableDegree in HR, Business, Law, or equivalent qualification; CIPD or German equivalent (e.g., geprüfter Personalfachkaufmann/-frau) advantageousExperience in QSR, hospitality, food service, or multi-site retailFamiliarity with SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, or similar HRIS platformsExperience working for an international brand with a UK or US parent companyWe offerWhat We OfferThe opportunity to build and shape the HR function for one of the world's most iconic restaurant brands in GermanyHigh-visibility role with direct access to European and Global HR leadershipFlexible/hybrid working with autonomy to manage your own workloadCompetitive salary, bAV pension, and market-aligned benefits packageA genuine opportunity to make a tangible difference during a pivotal growth phaseAdditional contact detailsTo apply, please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for the role. Applications should be submitted in English. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background.