PORTWEST, a leading global manufacturer of safety wear, workwear and PPE, is currently seeking applications for the position of Regional HR Generalist based in Sulbiate on a permanent basis reporting to the People Operations Manager. Founded in 1904, Portwest has become one of the fastest growing workwear companies in the world, employing over 6,000 staff worldwide. With 1400 styles across more than 20 ranges, we design, manufacture and distribute market leading products globally. We are on a mission to become the world's most requested PPE and Safety Wear brand.
JOB SUMMARY:
We are seeking a Regional HR Generalist to support the launch and ongoing growth of our operations in Italy while also providing HR support to France.
This role will act as the primary HR partner for both locations, with a strong focus on Italian employment law, compliance and employee relations. The successful candidate will operate as a standalone, on-site HR presence within a fast-growing warehouse and sales environment, managing the full employee lifecycle and ensuring operational HR excellence.
Working closely with the wider Group HR team, this role requires a hands-on, adaptable individual who can manage multiple priorities, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and support a growing workforce in both on-site and remote settings.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Act as the primary HR partner to managers and employees across Italy and France, providing guidance on policies, employment law and best practices
- Manage the full employee lifecycle, including onboarding, offboarding, benefit administration and employee data management
- Ensure compliance with local labour laws, statutory requirements and internal policies across both locations
- Handle employee relations matters including disciplinary, grievance, performance and absence management
- Lead HR compliance activities for a growing operation, including audits, reporting and coordination with external advisors
- Partner with managers on organisational changes, performance issues and workforce planning across warehouse and sales teams
- Maintain HR & Payroll systems (BambooHR, ADP), ensuring data accuracy
- Monitor, analyse and report HR metrics, identifying trends and driving continuous improvement
- Supporting the Talent Acquisition team with recruitment and hiring activities, particularly for operational roles, ensuring a smooth candidate and onboarding experience
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external providers as necessary (payroll, legal, H&S) to deliver efficient and consistent HR operations
REQUIREMENTS:
- Degree in HR or related field
- 3–5 years' experience in an HR role supporting Italian operations
- Strong knowledge of Italian employment legislation
- Fluency in Italian and English
- Proven experience managing employee relations and HR compliance
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, evolving environment
Nice to Have:
- Exposure to French employment law
- French language skills
- Experience supporting multi-site or international organisations
- Familiarity with HR systems such as BambooHR and ADP
- Experience in warehouse, manufacturing or fast-growing environments
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COMPANY AWARDS
- Great Place To Work 2024
- Private Irish Business of the year – Export Industry Awards 2025
- Silver Ecovadis Sustainability Rating 2025
Applicants must have a right to live and work in the relevant jurisdiction.
Portwest is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, civil status, veteran status, family status, disability status or membership of a minority group.
