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

The People Partner provides operational HR support to the Farm Technologies and Pure Flow Processing divisions across the UK & Ireland cluster. The role focuses on the effective delivery of core HR processes, employee relations, and day-to-day advisory support to managers, ensuring alignment with company policies, global standards, and local employment legislation.

Acting as the key People Partner representative in Ireland, the role also supports the implementation of wider People initiatives and ensures local insights are shared with the broader UK & Ireland People Partner team.

Location: This role can be based in Naas or Cork, Ireland, with travel to the UK.

Operational HR Delivery & Employee Relations

Provide day-to-day HR support to managers across the assigned divisions.
Manage and support employee relations cases, including: Investigations
Grievances; Disciplinary processes
Provide practical, consistent, and legally compliant advice on policies, procedures, and employment legislation (UK & Ireland).
Ensure local compliance with employment law and alignment with global standards.

HR Processes & Governance

Support the delivery and execution of global HR governance processes, including: Position approvals; Compensation changes; FTE reporting and workforce data submissions
Facilitate the delivery of annual People processes, including: Salary reviews; Perform & Grow (performance management); Leadership Review
Ensure timely communication, coordination, and accurate execution of processes across stakeholder groups.

Manager & Stakeholder Support

Act as a trusted HR advisor to managers, providing guidance on day-to-day people matters.
Support managers in operational planning and people-related decision-making.
Provide coaching and practical support to managers where required.
Represent the People Partner agenda in divisional meetings.
Support employee engagement initiatives and contribute to a positive employee experience.

Collaboration & Team Integration

Work closely with central People teams to deliver end-to-end People services.
Act as the local Ireland People Partner representative, ensuring local topics and insights are shared with the wider UK & Ireland team.
Support both global and local People projects as assigned by the line manager.

Reward Management

Support Reward Management activities within the cluster, including Salary review processes; Bonus calculations; Market analysis and benchmarking

Data, Reporting & Analytics

Provide required reports and data submissions to the global organisation and management.
Use HR data, metrics, and reporting tools to support decision-making and identify trends where appropriate.

Onboarding & Team Support

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

Your Profile / Qualifications

Eligibility

Legal right to work in Ireland
Ability to travel to the UK as required

Education & Professional Knowledge

University degree (Master’s preferred) in Psychology, Human Resources, or a related field
CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent)
Strong knowledge of Irish employment law, HR frameworks, and people practices

Professional Experience

Minimum 5 years’ experience in an HR Business Partner or similar operational HR role
Significant experience in operational HR, including: Employee relations case management; Providing guidance within UK & Irish employment law
Solid understanding of core HR disciplines:
- Employee Relations
- Talent Acquisition
- Performance Management
- Compensation & Benefits
- Learning & Development
Experience using HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, SAP) and reporting tools
Experience supporting data-driven HR decision-making using metrics and analytics

Skills & Competencies

Experience working in an international HR environment with diverse cultural contexts
Evidence of continuous professional development in HR
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Ability to support managers on day-to-day HR matters and operational planning
Experience in compensation processes, including salary reviews and bonus calculations
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and present data

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People Partner - Ireland

Job Description