Customer Service Advisor Location: ExeterJob type: PermanentSalary: &pound;26,000 per annumWe are currently recruiting for a Customer Service Advisor for an established manufacturing business in Exeter.This is a varied, customer focused role where you will be responsible for handling retailer enquiries, processing orders and ensuring customers receive a consistently high level of service. You will work closely with internal teams including Sales, Warehouse and Distribution to make sure orders are processed accurately and delivered on time. The role: <ul>
<li>Handling incoming calls from retailers, responding to queries and providing accurate information</li><li>Processing customer orders received by telephone, email and other channels</li><li>Preparing order confirmations, invoices, pro-formas and other relevant documentation</li><li>Working closely with warehouse and distribution partners to coordinate deliveries</li><li>Calculating discounts, carriage charges and other order related costs accurately</li><li>Maintaining accurate customer and order information within CRM system</li><li>Providing adminsiration and customer service support to field-based Sales Team</li><li>Building positive relationships with retailers and customers</li></ul>
 About you: <ul>
<li>Confident and professional communicator both over phone and in writing</li><li>Comfortable using Microsoft Office and CRM / database systems</li><li>Able to manage competing priorities while maintaining accuracy</li><li>Customer focused, approachable and able to build strong working relationships</li><li>Quick learner who is comfortable developing knowledge of a varied product range</li></ul>
 Closing date is 01/11/2026 Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are operating as an employment agency on behalf of its client.To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to shannon.bunch@hawk-3.com.By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future&nbsp;&nbsp;

Customer Service Advisor

Scheduling &amp; Customer Service Administrator Location : BridgwaterJob type: PermanentHours: 40 hours per week 8:30am - 17:00pmSalary:&nbsp;Up to &pound;32,000 per annumHawk 3 Talent Solutions are currently recruiting for a Scheduling &amp; Customer Service Administrator for a well-established organisation to joint heir team in Bridgwater.This opportunity would suit someone with previous experience scheduling engineers, service technicians or drivers, or a Transport Planner looking to move into a varied office-based role.Key responsibilities:<ul>
<li>Planning and coordinating daily schedules for field based technicians</li><li>Allocating reactive and planned work efficiently</li><li>Optimising routes and travel time to maximise productivity</li><li>Managing customer orders and maintaining accurate records</li><li>Managing shared inboxes and responding to service requests</li><li>Liaising with technicians and customers to resolve scheduling issues</li><li>Updating internal systems and ensuring data accuracy</li><li>Supporting continuous improvements within scheduling and operational processes</li></ul>
 About you: <ul>
<li>Previous experience in a scheduling, planning, dispatch or coordination role</li><li>Experience working with field engineers, service technicians or drivers</li><li>Transport planning or haulage experience will also be considered</li><li>Excellent organisation skills and ability to prioritise workloads</li><li>Strong communication and customer service skills</li><li>Comfortable working in a&nbsp; busy environments</li><li>Good IT skills including Microsoft Office</li></ul>
 Benefits; <ul>
<li>22 days holiday plus bank holidays</li><li>Company pension scheme</li><li>Cycle to work scheme</li><li>Free onsite parking</li><li>Health &amp; wellbeing benefit platofmr</li><li>Ongoing training and development</li><li>Supportive and friendly working environment</li></ul>
 Closing date is 01/11/2026 Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are operating as an employment agency on behalf of its client.To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to shannon.bunch@hawk-3.com.By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scheduling & Customer Service Administrator

Assembly Team Leader Location: NottinghamJob type: PermanentShift pattern: Rotating shiftsSalary: &pound;14 - &pound;15 per hour + shift allowanceWe are currently recruiting for a Assembly Team Leader to join an established and growing manufacturing business in Nottingham.This is a hands on leadership role where you will be responsible for supporting and coordinating the Assembly team, whilst also getting involved in the assembly of fabricated metal components. You will play an important role in ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently and to the required quality standards. Responsibilities: <ul>
<li>Lead and support small Assembly team on day to day basis</li><li>Organise workloads, allocate tasks and keep production moving to schedule</li><li>Carry out hands on assembly work using a range of hand and power tools</li><li>Interpret and work from basic engineering drawings and specifications</li><li>Inspect completed assemblies to ensure they meet quality requirements</li><li>Assist with the training and development of new and existing team members</li><li>Escalate any production, quality or technical issues as they arise</li><li>Work closely with other departments to ensure production deadlines are achieved</li></ul>
 About you: <ul>
<li>Previous assembly experience gained within a manufacturing or engineering environment</li><li>Experience supervising, coordinating or leading a small team</li><li>The ability to understand and work from engineering drawings</li><li>A good eye for detail and a strong focus on quality</li><li>Effective communication skills</li><li>A hands on, proactive approach to problem solving</li><li>Experience working with sheet metal or fabricated products would be beneficial</li></ul>
 Closing date is 29 th &nbsp;October 2026 Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are operating as an employment agency on behalf of its client.To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to Shannon.bunch@hawk-3.com. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future&nbsp;

Assembly Team Leader

CNC MILL / TURN MACHINISTS - DAYS &amp; NIGHTS - TEWKESBURYPERMANENT OPPORTUNITIES | EXCELLENT MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENTSALARY: COMPETATIVE - DOEAre you an experienced CNC Mill/Turn Machinist looking for a secure, permanent position with a well-established engineering business?We're currently recruiting for skilled CNC machinists to join a busy, modern manufacturing environment, with permanent opportunities available on both day and night shifts.THE ROLEYou'll be responsible for producing high-quality, precision-engineered components, working with modern CNC machinery and manufacturing a variety of complex parts.The role will involve:<ul>
<li>Setting and operating CNC Mill/Turn machines</li><li>Producing precision components to tight tolerances</li><li>Working from engineering drawings</li><li>Using measuring equipment to ensure quality and accuracy</li><li>Carrying out your own quality checks</li><li>Making tool changes and offsets where required</li><li>Working with a range of materials and component sizes</li><li>Maintaining high standards of housekeeping and health &amp; safety</li></ul>
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FORWe're keen to speak with experienced CNC Mill/Turn Machinists who have:<ul>
<li>Previous experience setting and operating CNC Mill/Turn machinery</li><li>Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings</li><li>Experience working to tight tolerances</li><li>Good knowledge of tooling, offsets and inspection equipment</li><li>A strong understanding of CNC machining processes</li><li>Excellent attention to detail</li><li>The ability to work independently and as part of a team</li><li>Experience with Fanuc controls and/or other CNC control systems would be advantageous.</li></ul>
DAYS &amp; NIGHTS AVAILABLEPermanent positions available on both day and night shifts, providing flexibility depending on your preferred working pattern.This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established engineering environment where your CNC experience and skills will be valued.INTERESTED?If you're an experienced CNC Mill/Turn Machinist and looking for your next permanent opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.Apply today or contact Donna at Hawk 3 Talent Solutions for a confidential chat.Closing date: 30.10.026To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to donna.gibson@hawk-3.com. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

CNC Mill/Turn Machinists

Parts Advisor - Multiple LocationsLocation: Seaton / Exeter / Crediton / Bovey TraceyJob type: PermanentHours: Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm and every third Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pmSalary: Dependent on experienceWe are currently recruiting for a Parts Advisor to join an established business within the automotive parts sector.This is a varied role for someone with a good understanding of the motor trade who enjoys working with customers, suppliers and workshop teams to ensure the right parts are sourced and supplied efficiently.You will be responsible for the smooth running of the parts operation, from identifying and sourcing parts through to ordering, receiving and supplying them to customers and wider business.Responsibilities:<ul>
<li>Dealing with customers both dace to face and over the telephone, providing a friendly and professional service</li><li>Identifying and sourcing the correct parts to meet customers and workshop requirements</li><li>Ordering parts from manufacturers and suppliers</li><li>Checking prices, availability and delivery times</li><li>Processing parts orders accurately and efficiently</li><li>Liaising with suppliers to ensure parts re delivered within timescales</li><li>Receiving, checking and organizing incoming stock</li><li>Maintaining accurate stock records</li><li>Preparing parts for customer collection</li><li>Supporting wider team with the day to day running of the business</li><li>Working efficiently in a busy environment</li></ul>
About you:<ul>
<li>Previous automotive experience is essential</li><li>Good knowledge of automotive parts and vehicle components</li><li>Excellent customer service and communication skills</li><li>Ability to accurately identify and source correct parts</li><li>Ability to work effectively under pressure and in a busy environment</li><li>Confident and professional approach when dealing with customers and suppliers</li></ul>
Closing date is 29 th October 2026Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are operating as an employment agency on behalf of its client.To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to Shannon.bunch@hawk-3.com. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future&nbsp;

Parts Advisor

Production Engineer - Oldbury, West Midlands&pound;42,500 per annum39.5 hours per weekMonday-Thursday: 8:00am-4:45pm | Friday: 8:00am-1:30pmPermanent | Full-TimeHawk 3 Talent Solutions are working with an established and growing manufacturing business based in Oldbury, West Midlands, who are looking to strengthen their Operations Team with an experienced Production Engineer.This is a fantastic opportunity for a hands-on Production Engineer who enjoys improving manufacturing processes, reducing waste and helping production teams work more efficiently.The RoleReporting to the Operations Manager, you'll play a key role in improving day-to-day production performance and developing a safe, organised and efficient manufacturing environment.Your responsibilities will include:<ul>
<li>Working closely with the Operations Manager and Team Leaders to implement and maintain a 5S programme.</li><li>Identifying opportunities to reduce waste and improve workplace organisation and efficiency.</li><li>Ensuring Risk Assessments are in place across production processes and regularly reviewed.</li><li>Supporting a strong Health &amp; Safety culture across the site.</li><li>Working alongside Production and Technical teams to provide operator training and employee development.</li><li>Identifying and leading process improvement initiatives.</li><li>Improving operational efficiency and supporting the achievement of production targets.</li><li>Working collaboratively with colleagues across the business to identify and implement practical improvements.</li></ul>
About YouWe're looking for an experienced Production Engineer who is confident working within a manufacturing environment and enjoys being involved at shop-floor level.You'll ideally have:<ul>
<li>At least 5 years' experience in a similar Production Engineering role.</li><li>Experience within a manufacturing/production environment.</li><li>A strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.</li><li>Lean or Six Sigma training/accreditation would be advantageous.</li><li>Strong problem-solving and continuous improvement skills.</li><li>Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.</li><li>The confidence to work with production teams and support operator development.</li><li>A proactive approach with the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions.</li></ul>
Interested?If you're an experienced Production Engineer with a background in Lean Manufacturing, process improvement and production optimisation, we'd love to hear from you.Closing date: 29.10.026To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to donna.gibson@hawk-3.com. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future&nbsp;#ProductionEngineer #ManufacturingJobs #EngineeringJobs #LeanManufacturing #SixSigma #ContinuousImprovement #ProductionEngineering #OldburyJobs #WestMidlandsJobs #EngineeringCareers #Hawk3TalentSolutions&nbsp;

Production Engineer

Quality Engineer Location: Oldbury, West MidlandsSalary: &pound;45,000 Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are working with an established and growing manufacturing business based in Oldbury, West Midlands, who are looking for an experienced Automotive Quality Engineer to join their team.This is an excellent opportunity for a Quality Engineer with a strong automotive manufacturing background who is looking to take ownership of quality, continuous improvement and customer requirements within a busy, high-volume environment.The RoleWorking closely with the Technical &amp; Quality Director, you will play a key role in maintaining and developing the site's quality systems, supporting continuous improvement and ensuring products consistently meet customer and industry standards.You'll be involved in:<ul>
<li>Managing Quality Control and Quality Assurance within a high-volume manufacturing environment.</li><li>Reviewing and analysing Non-Conforming Product (NCP) and leading root-cause analysis.</li><li>Working closely with Operations to implement corrective and preventative actions.</li><li>Managing and developing the Quality Management System (QMS).</li><li>Supporting the company's progression towards IATF and ISO 14001 standards.</li><li>Using quality tools and Quality Core Tools to drive continuous improvement.</li><li>Supporting NPI, APQP and PPAP documentation.</li><li>Managing customer and supplier quality requirements.</li><li>Leading site, system, process and product audits.</li><li>Leading and supporting customer and external audits.</li><li>Supporting and developing a small quality/production team.</li></ul>
About YouWe're looking for someone with:<ul>
<li>3-5 years' experience within Quality Engineering in an automotive manufacturing environment.</li><li>Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 - essential.</li><li>Knowledge and experience of VDA 6.3.</li><li>Good understanding of ISO 9001 quality systems.</li><li>Experience with Quality Core Tools, root-cause analysis and continuous improvement.</li><li>Experience working with APQP and PPAP.</li><li>The ability to read and understand engineering drawings and specifications.</li><li>Good knowledge of inspection techniques, ideally relating to plastic mouldings.</li><li>Previous experience managing or supporting a small team within manufacturing.</li><li>Excellent communication, organisation and time-management skills.</li><li>A customer-focused and proactive approach to problem solving.</li><li>Good working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel.</li></ul>
About the BusinessYou'll be joining an established UK manufacturing business specialising in functional and decorative coatings, supplying a diverse range of sectors including automotive, defence, medical, transport, electronics, white goods and general industry.The business operates to ISO 9001 standards and is continuing to develop its quality and environmental systems, making this an exciting time to join and have a genuine influence on quality performance and continuous improvement.Interested?If you're an experienced Automotive Quality Engineer with IATF and VDA 6.3 experience and are looking for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.Closing date: 29.10.026To Apply please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to donna.gibson@hawk-3.com. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website.Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future&nbsp;&nbsp;

Quality Engineer

Trainee Laboratory Technician Location: Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 Salary: &pound;26,000 per annum Hours: Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week About the Role Hawk 3 Talent Solutions have an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Laboratory Technician to join a busy Technical &amp; Product Compliance team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to start or develop a career within a laboratory, technical or product compliance environment. No previous laboratory experience is required as full training and development will be provided. This development role offers a varied introduction to laboratory and technical work, including product and material testing, measuring equipment, technical documentation, product compliance and supporting investigations and continuous improvement activities. You will work across office, laboratory and manufacturing environments, making this an ideal opportunity for someone who is practical, methodical and eager to learn. Key Responsibilities Following appropriate training, responsibilities will include:<ul>
<li>Carrying out laboratory and product testing.</li><li>Supporting the calibration, verification and control of laboratory and measuring equipment.</li><li>Assisting with new tooling, component and material approval activities.</li><li>Undertaking measurement activities and supporting technical assessments.</li><li>Supporting product and material trials while maintaining accurate records.</li><li>Reviewing supplier information and assisting with product compliance activities.</li><li>Compiling and maintaining technical documentation, datasheets and specifications.</li><li>Supporting customer and sales queries relating to product performance and compliance.</li><li>Producing accurate technical reports and records.</li><li>Maintaining laboratory records and traceability of samples and test results.</li><li>Assisting with investigations into product, material or testing issues.</li><li>Supporting continuous improvement initiatives.</li><li>Maintaining high standards of housekeeping and safe working practices.</li></ul>
Skills &amp; Experience We are looking for someone who has:<ul>
<li>GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in Mathematics and English.</li><li>Good numerical and analytical skills.</li><li>Excellent attention to detail.</li><li>The ability to follow written procedures and instructions.</li><li>Good Microsoft Office skills, particularly Word and Excel.</li><li>Strong written and verbal communication skills.</li><li>A willingness to learn and develop new technical skills.</li><li>The ability to work independently and as part of a team.</li></ul>
Previous experience within a science, engineering, technical, manufacturing, laboratory or quality environment would be advantageous but is not essential. Personal Attributes The successful candidate will:<ul>
<li>Be organised, reliable and able to manage priorities effectively.</li><li>Take pride in producing accurate work.</li><li>Be comfortable working with numbers, records and technical information.</li><li>Demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning and development.</li><li>Communicate effectively with colleagues across different departments.</li><li>Have a strong focus on Health &amp; Safety, quality and compliance.</li><li>Be comfortable working across office, laboratory and manufacturing environments.</li></ul>
What's on Offer?<ul>
<li>Salary of &pound;26,000 per annum</li><li>Structured training and development programme</li><li>Hands-on experience across laboratory, technical and compliance functions</li><li>Excellent career development opportunities</li><li>Diverse and varied role with increasing responsibility as skills develop</li><li>Supportive team environment</li></ul>
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career within a technical or laboratory environment and gain valuable practical experience within a growing business. If you would like to apply for the role of Trainee Laboratory Technician, then please email your CV to debbie.gough@hawk-3.com or call Deb on 07557803946 Closing date is 24.10.2026 Please note this could change subject to suitable applications. Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are acting as an employment agency on behalf of its client. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy. To view our full Privacy Policy please visit our website. Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future

Trainee Laboratory Technician

After months of amendments between the Commons and the House of Lords, the Employment Rights Bill has now become the Employment Rights Act following Royal Assent on 18th December 2025, formally adopting the UK Government&rsquo;s &ldquo;Make Work Pay&rdquo; reforms.
While many measures are subject to phased commencement and secondary legislation, the final shape of the reforms is now clear. Here&rsquo;s the latest on what&rsquo;s confirmed, what has changed since July, and what remains under consultation.
&nbsp;
<h2>What&rsquo;s happened since July?</h2>
Since our original briefing:
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">The Bill completed all Parliamentary stages.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Amendments proposed in the House of Lords have now been resolved.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">The legislation secured Royal Assent on 18th December 2025.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">A formal implementation roadmap has been confirmed.</li>
</ul>
Some early provisions (unchanged from July) took effect immediately on Royal Assent, including:
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Repeal of most of the Trade Union Act 2016.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Repeal of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Simplified industrial action ballet requirements.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Protection from dismissal for taking part in lawful industrial action.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h2>Confirmed implementation roadmap and what it means for you</h2>
<div>
<div>
<h3>April 2026</h3>
All confirmed and unchanged:
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Statutory sick pay (SSP) reform &ndash; removal of both the Lower Earnings Limit and the 3-day waiting period for SSP.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Day-one rights for paternity leave and unpaid parental leave.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Whistleblowing protections strengthened.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Fair Work Agency to be established - a new statutory body for guidance, oversight, and enforcement: will be established in April 2026.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Simplified trade union recognition process: confirmed and unchanged.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Electronic and workplace balloting for unions introduced.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Doubling of protective award for collective redundancy breaches.</li>
</ul>
<h3>October 2026</h3>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Fire and rehire regulations introduced - new statutory restrictions on using dismissal and re-engagement to change terms.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Clarified: The Act confirmed fire and rehire remains lawful only as a last resort, with explicit requirement to demonstrate genuine business necessity, meaningful consultation, and exploration of alternatives.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Tribunal time limits extended &ndash; exact timeframe to be confirmed.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Clarified: Extension confirmed, with exact duration to be set via secondary legislation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Workplace harassment reforms &ndash; a legal duty to take &ldquo;all reasonable steps&rdquo; to prevent harassment, and protection from harassment by third parties (e.g. clients or customers).</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Fair Pay Agreement body for the adult social care sector.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Two-tier procurement code for public sector contracts.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Tipping law tightened to ensure fair distribution.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Union access and awareness rights &ndash; a duty to inform workers of union rights, strengthening union right of access, and new rights for union representatives.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Extended protections for workers taking industrial action.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h3>&nbsp;2027</h3>
<div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Ban on &ldquo;exploitative zero hours contracts&rdquo; (ZHCs) - includes right to request predictable hours which will extend to agency workers.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Changed: The ban is confirmed and guaranteed hours introduced, but there is a statutory duty on the government to consult on reference periods.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">New: Statutory consultation required before regulations can define temporary / seasonal needs and exemptions from guaranteed hours.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Regulation of umbrella companies &ndash; a new framework to ensure transparency and fair practice.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Day-one protection from unfair dismissal &ndash; applies from the start of employment, subject to probation rules.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Changed: day one protection removed &ndash; six month qualifying period applies universally, and the statutory cap on compensation has been removed.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Bereavement leave entitlement extended to all workers.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Flexible working to become a day-one right.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Gender pay gap and menopause action plans &ndash; introduced on a voluntary basis in April 2026, to become standard.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Defined standards for anti-harassment measures.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">New legal protections for pregnant workers.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Reforms to the industrial relations framework.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Updates to collective redundancy thresholds.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Blacklisting protections and enforcement.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">What&rsquo;s still under consultation?</h2>
Precise dates are not published, but the duty to consult is now statutory.
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Guaranteed hours consultation: expected during 2026, ahead of 2027 commencement.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Seasonal / temporary need definitions: consultation required before regulations are made.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Umbrella company framework and enforcement measures: consultation alongside tax enforcement measures.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Codes of Practice (fire and rehire, harassment): draft versions expected before October 2026.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What you can do now</h2>
With Royal Assent secured and the overall roadmap confirmed it&rsquo;s time to shift from monitoring change to actively preparing for implementation. There&rsquo;s still some key details to be confirmed, but here&rsquo;s what you can be doing now:
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Review your current employment policies and practices, both internally and across temporary labour usage, in preparation for upcoming reforms.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Assess workforce models, contracts, and HR processes in light of new and pending measures.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Engage with supply partners, especially umbrella companies and staffing providers, to ensure compliance.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Monitor secondary legislation and guidance as it&rsquo;s released (we can help with this one!).</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Let's navigate the change together</h2>
The Employment Rights Act represents the most significant update to UK employment law in a generation. While implementation is phased, clarity from Royal Assent allows businesses to start planning now. We&rsquo;re ready to help you understand the changes, review your policies, and prepare for compliance. Let us know if you&rsquo;d like support with:
<ul>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Sense checking your current employment contracts.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Preparing policy updates.</li>
<li style="color: #2f455c;">Exploring what the new rules might mean for your recruitment strategy.</li>
</ul>
We&rsquo;re ready to help. Your operational success is our priority <a style="color: #e67e23;" href="https://www.hawk-3.com/employers-get-in-touch/">&ndash; let&rsquo;s talk.</a>

Employment Rights Act – Royal Assent Update

Budget 2025 – Workforce and Staffing Impact Brief

New year, new job scene. Or at least the saying goes, right? It seems that at the start of a every year there&rsquo;s always a shift in what&rsquo;s hot &ndash; and what&rsquo;s not, and 2024 is certainly no different. Sit back whilst we spill the tea on the latest trends to shake up our hiring habits.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 18pt; text-align: justify;">1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The tech takeover continues</h2>
It&rsquo;s no surprise that technology like AI and machine learning is switching up the hiring process. Phrases that we definitely didn&rsquo;t expect to see on our 2024 bingo card just two years ago, are now stealing the spotlight, revolutionising tasks such as candidate matching, CV screening, and initial interviewing. It&rsquo;s through these innovations that we&rsquo;re seeing a real upgrade across the recruitment process, with improvements to productivity, reductions in bias, and the opportunity for recruiters to focus on what really matters to them and their business, such as relationship building and talent management. Ready or not, tech is the future - don&rsquo;t be afraid to incorporate it into your 2024 game plan.
&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 18pt; text-align: justify;">2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Don&rsquo;t shy away from the diversity dance</h2>
Equity, diversity, and inclusion &ndash; once buzzwords in the boardroom are now the real deal in successful organisations. When it comes to hiring, it's time for companies to make a big deal about their equality practices, implementing inclusive interviewing practices and diverse placements. But this shift isn&rsquo;t just about meeting societal expectations &ndash; it&rsquo;s a strategic effort to spark innovation and create a workplace that is vibrant and strong.
&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 18pt; text-align: justify;">3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The remote revolution: it&rsquo;s here to stay</h2>
Believe it or not the office is no longer a ball and chain. And, whilst the remote work debate is still going strong, the practice itself looks set to stay, at least for now; according to ONS, a whopping 44% of workers reported home or hybrid working in 2023. Sure, these figures have changed slightly over the past couple of years &ndash; in the UK there has been a sharp decline in fully remote work since 2021, when most employees returned to the office in some capacity. But one thing&rsquo;s crystal clear: for those roles that can make it work, there&rsquo;s a growing expectation that there ought to be some WHF flexibility. The way we work is definitely changing, with companies figuring out that happy employees are generally productive ones. Which often means allowing them to choose their ideal workspace.
&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 18pt; text-align: justify;">4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Skills over degrees</h2>
It appears there&rsquo;s a noticeable change in the air regarding employers&rsquo; approach to hiring, with more and more waking up to the fact that the dynamic and diverse workplaces of today demand more than just technical know-how and academic accolades. Of course, they're important, but there's a bigger, more nuanced picture. It's about honing in on the intangibles &ndash; those down-to-earth skills that make a workplace click. Think effective communication, adaptability, and problem-solving; these are the traits that offer impact and value to a team. The shift isn't about tossing that pile of CVs aside (apologies to all the admin avoiders); it's about looking past the paper trail and focusing on the skills that truly spell success. Yep, we&rsquo;re officially in our &lsquo;soft skills&rsquo; era, where a candidate's ability to navigate the human side of work is just as crucial as their paper credentials.
&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 18pt; text-align: justify;">5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Levelling up the candidate experience </h2>
This year, it&rsquo;s predicted that the candidate experience will become a key differentiator for employers, with today&rsquo;s job seekers expecting a seamless, personalised, and candidate-centric recruitment process. They&rsquo;re looking for employers who get what makes them tick, &nbsp;understands their &nbsp;values and career goals, and guides them through the job-hunting journey with the right info at the right time. Because let&rsquo;s face it, nobody needs a headache when job-hunting. The key is making the candidate feel like a VIP; organisations that pull this off will build a rep as a workplace that everyone wants to be part of.
&nbsp;
So, there you have it &ndash; the lowdown on what's shaking in the UK's job market this year. In a landscape driven by technology, diversity, and changing work dynamic, it&rsquo;s imperative that companies stay ahead of the curve and adapt to the evolving industry. By doing so, they&rsquo;ll undoubtedly set their organisations up for success in 2024.
&nbsp;

Recruitment trends : what's in store for the year ahead

Driving Force

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             Operating from one of our regional branches across England, our consultants are on hand to offer tailored support and local knowledge for all your recruitment needs.

<h2>Benefits</h2>
So, the core values sound like a good fit for you &ndash; but what else is on offer?
<ul>
<li>25 days holidays plus bank holidays</li>
<li>An additional day off on your birthday</li>
<li>Industry-leading bonus scheme</li>
<li>Private medical and dental insurance (after qualifying period)</li>
<li>Cycle to work scheme</li>
<li>Annual company awards event</li>
<li>Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support when you need it</li>
<li>Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay</li>
<li>A paid charity day to support a cause that matters to you</li>
<li>Flexible bank holidays and lifestyle leave to better suit your schedule</li>
</ul>
What are you waiting for? We&rsquo;d love to hear from you.

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As our business grows, so does our need for top talent.It makes sense that happy employees stay in their job on average four times longer than unhappy employees doesn’t it? We want to build an engaged team, and that’s why we work hard to build a culture that’s a supportive, fun place to grow. And it works - in 2023 we received our 3-star accreditation by <a href="https://www.b.co.uk/accreditation/2-star?24e3ceec_page=8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Best Companies to Work for</a> , achieved through "outstanding" commitment to workplace engagement.While experience is great, attitude is better. So we keep our eye out for people that embody our core values; innovative - Consultative, Accountable, Real and Ethical. Does this sound like you? Then make sure you have a look at our current vacancies. And if there’s nothing there that ticks the boxes right now then please don’t hesitate to get in touch about future opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re always on the lookout for people who embody our core values: driven to deliver; focused on solutions; respectful relationships. Do these sound like bit of you? Then check out our <a href="/jobs/internal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">current internal vacancies</a>. But don’t worry if nothing catches your eye right now – just get in touch with your local branch, we’re more than happy to consider you for any future vacancies!

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Employers / News and insights

<h5>Choose your region to find the contact details of your local Hawk 3 team or get in touch through our enquiry form below.</h5>

Employers

<h2>Hello, and welcome to Hawk 3</h2>How do we talk about who we are without it sounding like it’s all about us? We prefer talking about you, but we understand why you might want to know a bit more about the kind of business you’re dealing with when deciding if we’re the right fit.So, if it’s a quick overview you’re looking for there’s no need to scroll through a lengthy history – you can just have a little watch of this video to understand more about how we came about, rebranded, and expanded to deliver for the differing needs of our clients.


              Operating from one of our regional branches across England, our consultants are on hand to offer tailored support and local knowledge for all your recruitment needs.

This is our business mindset, constantly striving to redefine the standard of excellence in everything we do, always looking for opportunities for improvement across our core values.

The best interests of all our people are at the heart of all we do; we’re not “yes” people, we want to offer our expertise, even if it means a difficult conversation.

We uphold a culture of responsibility, defining and agreeing expectations, and being held accountable against them.

We are not faceless; we’re people who work on a national basis across a range of sectors, all towards a common goal. Let’s have real conversations about needs and how we can help.

We offer peace of mind through ethical and compliant practices, for clients, candidates, and employees.

<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>We’re a fully qualified driving school able to support drivers through their initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/employers-specialisms/cpc-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

Recruit staff let us help you fill your next role

<h5>Vision</h5>"To become the first-choice recruitment partner by developing a brand that our customers, candidates, and employees are proud to be associated with."We want to be people’s first choice in an industry where there’s a lot of choice – achieving this means achieving our ambitious growth targets.

<h5>Mission</h5>“Through real people providing real solutions, our customers and candidates experience a true recruitment partnership. As a national provider with local presence, we are proud to deliver ethical and flexible employment solutions, accredited training, and people development.”We’ve grown over the years, but that doesn’t mean we’ve lost that commitment to providing an individual solution to your specific needs – solutions are in our name!

Employers  /  Job categories

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Job description

If this role is permanent, Hawk 3 Talent Solutions is operating as the employment agency. If this job is a temporary role, Hawk 3 Talent Solutions is operating as the employment business. Hawk 3 Talent Solutions is committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the jobWhilst we endeavor to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the futureBy applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our <a href="/privacy-policy/">Privacy Policy</a>

Job search

<h5>So what are you waiting for? Let&rsquo;s get started on your Hawk 3 journey&hellip;</h5>

Let’s explain what our core values will mean to you

It’s right there in the job title, ‘Consultant’. We want to understand exactly what you’re looking for in your next career move; your benefits and remuneration expectations, hours and location flexibility, and the type of company culture that will inspire you. Only by consulting with you can we find you a role that’s a perfect match.

If we say we’ll do it, then we’ll do it. Got questions about an opportunity or hiring company? If we don’t already know the answer, then we’ll find out and get back to you. Expecting feedback on your application or interview process? We’ll let you know the timeframe, and that’s exactly when you’ll hear from us.

We want to get to know you so we can support you personally. We’re approachable and responsive, and that’s why we’re confident we can build a real relationship with you. Searching for a new job can be daunting, we get it. So, let’s have open and honest conversations at every stage of the process so we get it right first time.

We have lots of compliance processes in place to safeguard the welfare of our workers, but it’s more than that - we promise to always be totally transparent. You’ll know every detail of any placement on offer before you agree to it, and if it’s not for you there’ll be no pressure from us.

<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>We’re a fully qualified driving school able to support you through your initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/job-seekers-specialisms/cpc-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

Want to know why people trust us to help them find their perfect role?
It&rsquo;s because we care. We&rsquo;re &lsquo;people&rsquo; people through and through, so you can be sure that you and your needs are central to your journey with us &ndash; it&rsquo;s embedded in our core values.

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<h5>Our branches offer regional coverage.</h5>Choose your region to find the contact details of your local Hawk 3 team or get in touch through our enquiry form below.

More information

Recruiting people to work in the legal sector? Get a callback

With access to circa 22 million candidates (yes – really!) through our industry leading technology and job board partnerships, our specialists will support you throughout the full recruitment lifecycle, all the while giving you peace of mind thanks to our aftercare service and perm placement refund schedule.We’ll build a solution around your specific resourcing requirements, and guarantee that all of our recruitment campaigns will offer:<ul><li>A consultative partnership to understand your exact needs</li><li>A dedicated consultant with sector knowledge and experience</li><li>A tailored talent attraction campaign launched within 24 hours</li><li>All applications screened, and their interest in the role confirmed in writing</li><li>All CVs sent in a uniformed format within a pre-agreed timescale</li></ul>Sound like something you could benefit from? We’ve included a bit more detail around our recruitment solutions below, or you can get in touch with one of our team today who’d be happy to have a no-strings discussion about your business and resourcing needs.<h5>Contingency recruitment</h5>Are you recruiting for up to 4 permanent or fixed term vacancies? Operating on a project-to-project basis, we’ll source the right people for your business and negotiate an introductory fee based upon the candidate’s annual salary, which we’ll apply only once the candidate has started work.<h5>Dedicated campaign</h5>Is your business growing? Are you finding a need to recruit for a variety of roles? Then a dedicated campaign might just be the model for you. We’ll create a bespoke marketing campaign to attract and secure the right people. The campaign cost will be a combined fee based upon each candidate’s annual salary, and 20% will be due as an upfront payment prior to the project launch.<h5>Executive search</h5>Maybe you’ve got a senior role to fill and need some targeted support? We know there are times that targeted headhunting is required in order secure the best candidate for the role. We’ll provide you with market data and conduct psychometric assessments for shortlisted candidates. Our introductory fee will be based on the candidate’s annual salary.<h5>Build-to-fit</h5>If you’ve got more than 10 vacancies at entry to mid-level, then we can actually build a bespoke solution for you based on your business needs and the skill set you require. For temporary placements, we’ll apply a margin fee based on the candidate’s salary (chargeable on an hourly basis) or we’ll create a bespoke pricing model based on your volume or project specific requirement.<h5>Specialist contractor</h5>Lastly (but certainly not least), perhaps you find yourself on the hunt for a specialist on an interim or contract basis. Just tell us exactly what you’re looking for, and we’ll get to work finding the ideal candidate. We will agree a fixed introductory fee depending on the number of roles and your specific requirements.

Sourcing temporary or temp-to-perm staff?

Looking for a permanent addition to the team?

With access to circa 22 million candidates (yes – really!) through our industry leading technology and job board partnerships, our specialists will support you throughout the full recruitment lifecycle, all the while giving you peace of mind thanks to our aftercare service and perm placement refund schedule.We’ll build a solution around your specific resourcing requirements, and guarantee that all of our recruitment campaigns will offer:<ul><li>A consultative partnership to understand your exact needs.</li><li>A dedicated Consultant with sector knowledge and experience.</li><li>A tailored talent attraction campaign launched within 24 hours</li><li>All applications screened, and their interest in the role confirmed in writing.</li><li>All CVs sent in a uniformed format within a pre-agreed timescale.</li></ul>Sound like something you could benefit from? We’ve included a bit more detail around our recruitment solutions below, or you can get in touch with one of our team today who’d be happy to have a no-strings discussion about your business and resourcing needs.<h6> </h6>

Recruiting people to work in the manufacturing and automation sector? Get a callback

Hire the best talent for your teamLooking to recruit new team members?We can help you hire the right people to fill senior roles in:<ul><li>Business support</li><li>Creative and digital</li><li>Facilities management</li><li>FMCG and online retail</li><li>Human resources</li><li>Finance</li><li>Legal</li><li>Manufacturing and automation</li><li>Supply chain and logistics</li><li>Sales</li></ul>

Job seekers