Assistant to the executive director jobs

About us

CSE is a national charity based in Bristol with a clear mission: to tackle the climate emergency and end the suffering caused by cold homes. We believe in a future where everyone can live in a warm, healthy home powered by a fair and sustainable energy system, and we work with people, organisations and communities to help make that a reality. We collaborate across teams and disciplines to deliver practical change, and we’re proud of our independence, integrity and commitment to social justice. Our people are at the heart of what we do, and we want CSE to be an outstanding place to work, one where colleagues feel supported, included, and empowered to make a difference.

The role

Would you like to be part of a small, collaborative HR team that supports the people driving CSE’s mission to tackle the climate emergency and end fuel poverty? We are looking for a proactive, organised and values-driven HR Officer to join our busy HR team. This is a hands-on role at the heart of our operations, supporting around 150 staff and 60 line managers across the employee lifecycle.

As HR Officer, you will provide practical, people-focused support from recruitment and onboarding through to contract changes, benefits administration, and leaver processes. You will act as the first point of contact for HR queries, helping colleagues and managers to apply policies effectively, use systems confidently, and follow processes that are consistent and people-centred.You will also play a key role in maintaining accurate information across systems such as Employment Hero, SharePoint HR Intranet and Monday, ensuring data is compliant and well managed. Working closely with the Senior HR Manager and Senior HR Advisor, you will contribute to improving how HR supports staff, helping to strengthen processes, enhance systems and create a positive employee experience.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys getting the detail right, solving problems and improving the way things work. You will be part of a small, friendly team where HR systems and processes are evolving, so you will need to be comfortable balancing daily operational work with helping to shape clearer, more efficient ways of working.

Who you are

You are motivated by the opportunity to deliver reliable, people-focused HR support that helps staff across CSE do their best work. You take pride in being organised and accurate, and you are keen to develop your skills and confidence in a supportive, purpose-led environment.

You will bring:

• Some experience in HR or people-focused support, with an understanding of HR processes and a basic knowledge of UK employment law, and a willingness to continue learning.
• Confidence managing day-to-day HR queries, preparing contracts and letters, and maintaining accurate employee records.
• Strong digital and administrative skills, including experience using HR systems, spreadsheets and Office 365 (especially Word and Excel).
• Excellent organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach and the confidence to take ownership of routine processes.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain HR information clearly and sensitively.
• A collaborative mindset and alignment with CSE’s values, championing inclusion, fairness and wellbeing at work.

What we offer

Working at CSE means being part of a supportive, purpose-driven team, where your skills contribute to real social and environmental change. We offer:

Salary: Scale D (£28,124 - £33,688).

Pension: 8% employer / 6% employee.

Holiday: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays. 

Benefits:

o TOIL programme and flexibility to support work–life balance

o A commitment to supporting your role progression and continued development

o Health Cash Plan

o Life Assurance

o Enhanced sick pay, maternity pay, adoption pay

o Access to retail discounts and discounted breakdown cover

o Employee Assistance Programme

o Staff activities like yoga at lunch and a book club

o Tech Scheme

o Cycle to Work Scheme

Our culture and values

At CSE, our values shape how we work together and with others.

• Commitment to our mission
• Collaboration
• Conscientiousness
• Initiative

Application procedure

To apply, please complete CSE’s application form. Applications should clearly demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the person specification outlined in the job description.

Application deadline: 10:00 on Tuesday 25 November 2025.

Applications should be sent by:

• Email 
  or,
• Post - Reception, Centre for Sustainable Energy, St James Court, St James Parade, Bristol BS1 3LH

If you require any reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment process, please let us know and we’ll be happy to accommodate your needs.