About the Company
Since our establishment in 1997, Chery has been a pioneering force in China's automotive industry. With a steadfast commitment to independent innovation, we've earned a strong reputation for delivering high-quality vehicles and mobility solutions worldwide.With products exported to over 80 countries and regions, Chery has been the No.1 Chinese brand in export volume for 21 consecutive years.Join us as we continue to drive innovation, shape the future of mobility, and exceed expectations in the global automotive market. Connect with us for the latest news, career opportunities, and industry insights.
About the Job
We are seeking an experienced and pragmatic HR Manager to join our commercial vehicle operation. You will lead all people-related activities across our dealerships, workshops, and head office functions. This role requires a hands-on professional who can balance strategic workforce planning with the day-to realities of a fast-paced transport environment, ensuring compliance with German employment law and industry-specific regulations.
Responsibilities
Operational HR Management
* Lead the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and offboarding.
* Manage and resolve complex employee relations cases, including disciplinaries, grievances, and absence management, in line with ACAS guidelines.
* Provide expert advice to line managers on employment law, company policies, and best practices.
* Oversee HR systems and maintain accurate employee records, ensuring data integrity and GDPR compliance.
Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
* Develop and execute recruitment strategies to attract skilled HGV technicians, fitters, and drivers, as well as sales and administrative staff.
* Manage relationships with recruitment agencies, apprenticeship providers, and local colleges to build talent pipelines.
* Coordinate the recruitment process for apprentices and graduate trainees to support long-term workforce development.
Learning & Development
* Identify training needs across the business and coordinate development programs.
* Ensure compliance with mandatory training requirements, including Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence), ADR (dangerous goods), and health & safety certifications.
* Support management development and succession planning initiatives.
Compensation & Benefits
* Manage payroll processes in conjunction with the finance team, ensuring accurate and timely payments.
* Benchmark salaries and benefits to remain competitive within the CV sector.
* Administer company car/fleet policies and fuel card management.
Employee Relations & Wellbeing
* Foster a positive workplace culture that supports employee engagement and retention.
* Manage employee wellbeing initiatives, including access to Employee Assistance Programmes.
* Support TUPE processes where applicable during acquisitions or contract wins.
Health, Safety & Compliance
* Partner with the H&S team to ensure a safe working environment across workshops and offices.
* Ensure compliance with O-Licensing requirements regarding driver fitness and hours.
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of employment legislation and industry regulations.
Qualifications
* Proven experience as an HR Manager, HR Business Partner, or Senior HR Advisor, ideally within the commercial vehicle, automotive, logistics, or transport sectors (essential).
* Experience supporting multi-site operations, including workshop and field-based teams.
* CIPD Level 5 or 7 qualification (desirable).
* Strong knowledge of German employment law and ACAS best practices.
* Experience managing employee relations cases and conducting investigations.
* Knowledge of O-Licence compliance, Driver CPC, and HGV licensing requirements.
Required Skills
* Pragmatic and solutions-focused approach to problem-solving.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
* Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
* Proficiency in HR information systems (e.g., SAP, SuccessFactors, Kerridge) and Microsoft Office.
Preferred Skills
* Approachable and empathetic, yet resilient when handling difficult conversations.
* Commercially aware with a genuine interest in the transport industry.
* High level of integrity and discretion.