Human Resources Manager

Aikmans Group Limited – Christchurch, South Island About the Role Aikmans Hospitality Group is one of Christchurch’s leading hospitality operators, running five Iconic Venues: Aikmans Merivale, Brigittes Merivale, Brigittes Sumner, Mr. Brightside Rooftop Bar, and No.4. Each has its own character and personality, but all share the same commitment to delivering premium food, beverage and service experiences. We are looking for a capable, people-first HR professional to cover a maternity leave period of a minimum of 6 months starting late July 2026. There will be a handover period before the role begins independently, giving you a solid foundation to step in with confidence. This is a broad, hands-on role that spans human resources, staff welfare, training and culture across the group. You’ll be the primary HR contact for five venues, working closely with Venue Managers and the wider leadership team to keep things running smoothly, professionally and in compliance with NZ employment law. What You'll Be Doing People and Employee Relations Act as the primary point of contact for staff welfare matters across all AHG venues Manage performance management processes, disciplinary procedures and investigation in line with the Employment Relations Act Conduct 90-day trial reviews alongside Venue Managers and coordinate performance appraisals as required Support Venue Managers with HR queries, coaching and day-to-day people challenges Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive employee matters Recruitment & Onboarding Oversee recruitment across all venues, screening candidates, conducting initial interviews and coordinating with Venue Managers Manage end-to-end onboarding and offboarding processes, ensuring all documentation is completed and signed Maintain accurate and up to date employee records Conduct staff inductions in line with onboarding plans Training and Culture Promote a positive, collaborative and solutions-focused workplace culture Support Venue Managers inn coaching their teams to deliver on service standards and workplace expectations Coordinate training plans, induction processes and development initiatives in consultation with Venue Managers Create monthly staff mailer to keep AHG employees informed and connected Compliance and Documentation Monitor and maintain compliance with company policies, H&S requirements, on-licence obligations and employment legislation Review and maintain employment documentation including IEAs, operational expectations and variations Support consistent onboarding across the group What we’re looking for Solid experience in HR, people management or a generalist HR role, ideally in hospitality or a similarly fast-paced environment Confident working knowledge of New Zealand employment law and the Employment Relations Act Strong interpersonal skills, you build trust easily and handle sensitive matters with care and professionalism Organised, self-directed and comfortable managing multiple venues and priorities Experience with recruitment, onboarding and employee relations processesExcellent written and verbal communication skills A genuine passion for people, culture and team development Experience with hospitality systems is a bonus but not essential What we offer A varied, meaningful role with real responsibility across a respected multi-venue group A warm, supportive team culture that genuinely values its people The opportunity to work across five unique Christchurch Venues A structured handover so you start feeling set up for success Competitive salary based on experience Contract Details This is a fixed‑term position covering a maternity leave period, with a minimum duration of 6 months. Start date is late July 2026, with a handover period beforehand. The role may be extended depending on the return date of the current role holder. Please note applicants must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work visa to be considered for this role. #J-18808-Ljbffr