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Posted 30 July, 2026

People Services Advisor

South West Water
Exeter, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Powered by Water, Driven by PurposeSouth West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK's most stunning landscapes.We're proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.Whether you're starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.People Services AdvisorSouth West Water | Exeter | £27,000 - £29,000 | 6-9 Month Fixed-Term Contract | Hybrid WorkingThe Organised Mind Behind Every Great Employee ExperienceAt South West Water, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Behind every successful new starter, promotion, contract change and employee journey is someone making sure every detail is handled accurately, efficiently and professionally.We're looking for a highly organised, proactive and resilient People Services Advisor to join our People & Culture team in Exeter.This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys juggling multiple priorities, and takes genuine pride in delivering an exceptional service. You'll be the person who keeps things moving, spots issues before they become problems and brings order to a busy and ever-changing workload.If you're naturally organised, calm under pressure, can think outside the box while prioritising effectively and enjoy making a real impact behind the scenes, we'd love to hear from you.Why This Role MattersAs a People Services Advisor, you'll play a critical role in supporting employees and managers across South West Water throughout the entire employee lifecycle.From onboarding new colleagues and coordinating employment checks to supporting contractual changes and leavers, you'll ensure every process is delivered accurately, compliantly and with care.As part of a business that supports the UK's Critical National Infrastructure, the quality and integrity of our people processes are essential. Your work will directly contribute to maintaining accurate records, supporting compliance and helping protect our organisation and our people.What You'll Be DoingAs a key member of our People Services team, you'll: Deliver accurate and timely HR administration across the full employee lifecyclePrepare and issue contracts, offer letters, variation letters and employment documentationMaintain accurate employee records within our HR systems, ensuring GDPR complianceAct as a first point of contact for employee and manager HR queriesConduct vetting checks and manage security clearance processes, ensuring all candidates meet the required compliance, screening and eligibility standards prior to appointment.Support recruitment administration and onboarding activitiesCoordinate and administer pre-employment and BPSS checksMonitor key dates, deadlines and clearance renewals, proactively following up where requiredWork closely with Payroll and People & Culture colleagues to ensure employee changes are processed accurately and on timeProduce HR reports and support internal and external auditsIdentify opportunities to improve processes, systems and ways of workingWhat We're Looking For Essential Experience in HR Administration, HR Shared Services, People Operations or a similar HR support environmentStrong organisational and administration skills with the ability to manage multiple prioritiesExperience working in a fast-paced, high-volume roleExcellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracyConfident communication skills and the ability to build effective relationshipsStrong understanding of confidentiality, GDPR and handling sensitive informationGood working knowledge of Microsoft Office and HR systemsAbility to obtain and maintain BPSS clearanceDesirable Experience supporting BPSS, vetting or pre-employment screening processesCIPD qualification, or currently working towards oneWhat's In It For You? Competitive salary of £27,000 - £29,000Hybrid working available following successful completion of your training and induction periodA supportive and collaborative People & Culture teamOpportunities for development and career progressionThe chance to work for a purpose-led organisation serving communities across the South WestA varied role where no two days are the sameAt South West Water, we believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As ourPeople Services Advisor you'll enjoy: Competitive Salary - Based on experience and skillsBonus Scheme - Rewarding your performancePension Scheme - Helping you plan for your futureHealthcare Benefits - Access to employee assistance programsProfessional Development - Support for career growth with training opportunitiesEmployee Discounts - On various products and servicesGenerous Annual Leave - Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlementClosing Date: 29th July 2026The post holder will be required to obtain and maintain National Security Vetting (NSV) clearance appropriate to the role.We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.TPBN1_UKTJ