HR 'pay as you go' is hoping to be a hit

Jul 24 2010 by John Hill, The Journal

A GROWING Newcastle HR specialist is looking to provide a “pay as you go” service to firms working their way out of the recession.

Exclusive Human Resources has launched a virtual HR manager service starting from £25 a month, offering three tiers of service for businesses that might require HR services but cannot afford to hire their own professionals full time. These range from access to an online system with template handbooks and contracts to bespoke services, HR audits, discounted training and employment law updates.

The business itself was set up in 2007 and now has 11 full and part-time staff and offices in Newcastle and Leeds.

Managing director Mark Ions said: “The service is primarily aimed at small and medium enterprises who appreciate they need an HR function but can’t afford it. We’ll take care of the client’s basic requirements and look at whether it is legally compliant. We also offer a more in-depth package.

“We work on a minimum 12-month contract. A lot of our competitors used to do three to five-year contracts but people didn’t want to tie themselves to that, as a lot of companies are still looking at what they require and what they can afford.”

Newcastle bespoke furniture business PMH Interiors was one of the first to sign up to take care of its five staff. Director Michelle Harrison said: “Exclusive’s experts are helping us to get the basic HR framework in place so that we fully support and develop our people and at the same time avoid any HR problems arising.

“And it’s very reassuring to know that we have professional support in place.”

Exclusive Human Resources initially started life as an HR recruitment company, but has since moved into HR consultancy and is looking at leadership and development of employee communication.