HR Generalist

About the Role

C&D Foods, part of the ABP Food Group and a major pet food manufacturer in Europe, is looking for a dynamic HR Generalist to join their primary location in Edgeworthstown, County Longford, Ireland. This position offers a broad scope covering recruitment, onboarding, HR data management, employee welfare, compliance, and talent growth within a fast-evolving international business setting.

Key Duties

• Oversee the entire employee lifecycle, from recruitment, induction, contract handling, maintaining employee records to managing leaver formalities.
• Handle recruitment processes end-to-end: creating job requisitions, posting ads, reviewing CVs, interview coordination and conducting, reference and medical checks, and onboarding.
• Manage HR systems (SAP SuccessFactors) to ensure employee information is accurate and up to date.
• Serve as the primary HR contact for employees and managers, advising on policies, procedures, and various people matters.
• Ensure strict compliance with employment laws, company policies, ethical standards, visa/work permit requirements, and audit standards including SMETA, SAQ, and Ecovadis as applicable.
• Regularly review and update HR policies and practices to maintain legal compliance and implement best practices.
• Track and report on attendance, absenteeism, and long-term sickness, working in tandem with managers to manage related cases effectively.
• Administer employment documents such as confirmation letters, references, salary changes, contracts, and maintain personnel files.
• Oversee general HR administrative tasks including email management, filing documentation, and generating reports.
• Coordinate with occupational health service providers to support employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Lead wellbeing activities and organize workplace events aligned with company and group strategies.
• Promote employee engagement through recognition programs, cultural initiatives, communication campaigns, and action plans.
• Advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion to foster a welcoming and positive workplace environment.
• Support the implementation of employee surveys and follow-up action plans for continuous workforce improvement.
• Prepare and publish quarterly site newsletters and other internal communications.
• Generate HR metrics and reports, including compliance reporting such as Working Time Directive.
• Coordinate staff recognition events like long service awards and retiree acknowledgements.
• Build relationships with local schools, communities, and external organizations to aid talent acquisition and community engagement.
• Assist the HR team in strategic projects and initiatives aimed at supporting an ambitious people agenda.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Previous experience of 1-2 years in HR, preferably within a fast-paced or FMCG environment is advantageous but not mandatory.
• A degree in HR or related fields, or CIPD qualification is preferred though not essential.
• Strong IT proficiency coupled with a proactive, solution-focused approach and enthusiasm for continuous process enhancement.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, both oral and written.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in handling tasks.
• Collaborative team player mindset, comfortable to respectfully challenge and drive improvements in processes.