People Manager

Podfather is entering an exciting new phase of growth. To help us achieve our goals, we are looking for a dedicated and experienced People Manager to take ownership of our HR function.

In this standalone role, you will shape our company culture, bridging strategic business goals with hands-on daily HR management. You will work closely with senior leadership and the Board, creating the frameworks and supportive environment needed to help our teams thrive. If you enjoy having the freedom to build modern, effective HR systems from the ground up, this role is for you.

• Drive performance: Design and implement practical performance management frameworks, including goal-setting and career progression pathways, to support and recognise our teams.
• Shape company culture: Partner with the Executive team to evolve our organisational structure and build a culture of transparency and high standards.
• Coach & support leadership: Act as a trusted advisor to managers across the business, helping them develop their leadership skills and handle team conversations effectively.
• Lead talent acquisition: Manage the end-to-end hiring and onboarding process, ensuring we attract excellent candidates who align with our values.
• Run daily HR operations: Manage the day-to-day HR function efficiently, from onboarding and HR system management to compensation benchmarking and UK employment law compliance.
• Manage employee relations: Handle sensitive employee matters with empathy, speed, and clear judgment, ensuring fairness and high standards across the business.

• Proven HR experience: A strong track record operating as a sole or lead People Manager, ideally within a fast-paced or growing B2B SaaS environment.
• Performance management expertise: Experience designing and rolling out practical performance management and talent development frameworks.
• Strong communication & influence: The credibility and emotional intelligence to advise, support, and constructively challenge directors and department heads on people decisions.
• Employment law knowledge: A solid, practical understanding of UK employment law applied with a commercial mindset (CIPD Level 5/7 or equivalent experience is preferred).
• Proactive & analytical: Comfortable navigating ambiguity, using HR data to make informed decisions, and improving manual processes.

• Autonomy & impact: Total ownership over the HR roadmap with direct access to the Executive team and Board.
• Competitive package: Base salary of £53,000 – £60,000 + generous company pension & equity/bonus)
• Hybrid flexibility: 2–3 days per week in our Edinburgh office, balancing in-person collaboration with focused home working.
• Growth support: Dedicated annual budget for your own professional coaching, CIPD progression, or training.
• Great environment: Modern tools, clear decision-making lines, and a supportive team focused on excellence.

Submit your CV and a brief note to jobs@podfather.com detailing:

1. A brief example of how you designed or improved a performance management system in a past role.
2. How you balance being an empathetic advocate for employees with supporting the operational goals of the business.