Senior HR Manager

About The Role We are seeking a Senior HR Manager to lead our US HR and Operations function. This is a senior, trusted role with a seat at the table - responsible for shaping the employee experience, driving engagement, and ensuring compliance and operational excellence across the US. Reporting directly to the HR Director (based in London) and partnering closely with the US Managing Director, you will provide both strategic and hands‑on HR leadership for a high‑performing business. You’ll oversee the HR Generalist and Office Manager, act as the senior HR contact for the US team and play a key role in aligning US people priorities with global initiatives. This is a dynamic opportunity for an experienced HR professional who thrives on variety, collaboration, and impact - combining people leadership, commercial insight, and operational excellence in equal measure. Key Responsibilities Leadership and Business Partnership Act as the senior HR point of contact for all US employees and managers, providing expert advice, coaching, and practical solutions. Partner with the US Managing Director, HR Director, and senior leaders to align people strategy with business goals. Lead and develop the HR Generalist and Office Manager, fostering growth, accountability, and collaboration. Collaborate with HR colleagues across EMEA and APAC to ensure alignment and consistency in policies, processes, and initiatives. Employee Relations and Compliance Manage complex employee relations cases, investigations, and performance matters, ensuring fair and consistent outcomes. Serve as the subject matter expert on US employment law and compliance, including multi‑state regulations. Lead the relationship with PEI’s Professional Employer Organization (PEO), overseeing and negotiating contracts, benefits, and payroll coordination. Lead on contribution strategy modelling for healthcare benefits. Maintain up‑to‑date HR policies and employee handbook, ensuring alignment with federal and state requirements. Oversee compliance training, visa/immigration administration, and record‑keeping. HR Operations and Employee Experience Partner with the Office Manager to design high‑impact engagement, wellbeing, and culture initiatives. Analyse output from stay and exit interviews, identifying themes and providing actionable insights. Maintain accurate and compliant employee records within the HRIS system. Lead annual benefit renewal and open enrolment processes, ensuring smooth execution and employee understanding. Performance, Development, and Engagement Partner with managers on performance management, feedback, and development planning. Collaborate with the HR Director on global initiatives, including succession planning, leadership development, and retention strategies. Financial and Operational Oversight Contribute to the annual US operating budget and manage HR‑related costs throughout the year. Partner with Finance to ensure payroll accuracy, benefits billing, and compliance with audits and workers’ compensation requirements. Oversee office management operations in partnership with the Office Manager, including space planning and facilities projects. About You Requirements Significant experience in a HR generalist position Demonstrable experience working with a mid‑tier HRIS Experience working with a mid‑tier US‑based PEO Strong employee relations and conflict resolution experience Exceptionally organised with impeccable time‑management skills Discretion and confidentiality Desired Experience Working in an international business Budget management Experience working with sales/commercial and editorial professionals. HR qualification (SHRM or similar) Personal Characteristics Fast and innovative learner Self‑motivated with a results and data‑driven approach Personable and pro‑active Ability to work independently Self‑motivated and willing to take responsibility Innovative: able to lead by example from the front and work closely with global commercial director on staffing and compensation matters for a new sales organization recently implemented. Comfortable operating in a grown‑up working environment where regular feedback is provided and the eyes of several (senior) interested parties will always be focused Resilient under pressure – able to remain focused in the face of multiple competing priorities and ensure key deadlines are met Diplomacy: able to display multi‑faceted communication skills in a persuasive, but diplomatic way to ensure that outstanding results are achieved, and the right deadlines and initiatives get prioritised High degree of personal pride in own and company work, constantly striving to improve Highly goal‑focused and motivated by achieving high personal standards in all aspects of work – ambitious to meet own personal and organisational goals At PEI we value diverse talent and welcome applications from everyone – regardless of background. We are an equal opportunity employer and our inclusive culture at PEI is reflected in every stage of the recruitment journey. Please inform us at initial stages of the recruitment process if you require any reasonable adjustments and we can accommodate this. PEI Group supports flexible working arrangements, and we welcome career returners. #J-18808-Ljbffr