HR Generalist

Company Overview

Dawn Meats, established in 1980, is a premier meat processing company and a trusted supplier to major supermarkets, foodservice, and restaurant chains. With an annual revenue exceeding €2 billion, the organization employs over 8,000 people across 15 countries and exports products to more than 50 countries worldwide.

Role Summary

The HR Generalist will offer comprehensive HR support at the Charleville production facility in County Cork. Reporting to the Human Resources Manager, the role requires the ability to effectively address HR-related matters promptly and with integrity, while continuously improving operational practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer HR tasks including recruitment, pre-employment screening, induction processes, contract preparation, managing absences, handling disciplinary and grievance procedures, and fostering employee engagement and communication.
• Support recruitment for non-EU candidates and manage the work permit process end-to-end, including associated administration.
• Ensure accurate completion and submission of all necessary documentation to Shared Services during employee lifecycle stages.
• Maintain personnel files and records in compliance with data protection laws, ensuring timeliness and accuracy.
• Assist management in developing manpower and resource plans for permanent and temporary staff, adjusting for site activity fluctuations.
• Prepare reports relating to long-term absences, working time directives, turnover, and annual leave statistics.
• Conduct exit interviews and provide data regarding labor turnover and workforce stability.
• Collaborate with managers on any policy or procedure breaches.
• Train and coach stakeholders on HR best practices covering recruitment, employment law, absence management, performance management, equal opportunities, and team motivation.
• Participate in disciplinary investigations and meetings, documenting accurately and supporting line managers to uphold best practices.
• Coordinate with payroll and finance teams for pay-related matters and occasional payroll processing for the site.
• Engage constructively with Employee Forums and site Union representatives to cultivate a positive employee relations atmosphere.
• Act as the advocate for the Human Resources Information System (CoreHR) to optimize its use under data protection standards.
• Contribute to the company's Graduate Programme by supporting trainee intake and monitoring development plans.
• Adhere to ethical audit standards as dictated by customers, aiming for best practice compliance within the ethical audit framework.
• Safeguard HR data confidentiality in line with GDPR policies.
• Handle routine employee requests promptly and provide necessary documentation or information as needed.
• Stay informed on updates to national employment laws and internal HR procedures.
• Provide additional administrative support and collaborate on HR projects and special events as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possession of a third-level qualification in Human Resources or a related discipline.
• At least 2 years of experience in a HR Coordinator or an analogous position.
• Strong understanding of Irish employment legislation.
• Proven ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, results-driven work setting.
• Comprehensive knowledge of HR principles, practices, and procedures.
• Experience with data management and a solid appreciation of confidentiality standards.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal capabilities.
• Skill in prioritizing tasks, multitasking, and maintaining composure under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
• Consistent ability to meet deadlines.
• Experience working with a diverse workforce population.
• Payroll processing experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with CoreHR software is advantageous.