HR Generalist

Locksmith Animation

Job Title: HR Generalist

Location: London, UK

Reports To: Head of HR, SISTER

Role Summary

Locksmith Animation, London, is seeking a proactive and dynamic HR Generalist with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment. This role primarily focuses on production HR but will also support the wider London Studio as part of the HR team. Reporting to the Head of HR at SISTER London, you will be part of an established HR team working across multiple companies within the SISTER Group.

This varied generalist HR role involves supporting our production team in managing a diverse workforce of freelancers and remote/international talent. We seek someone confident working autonomously, capable of building strong relationships across the business, and becoming a trusted advisor within production and the broader company.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Act as the primary HR contact, supporting Heads of Departments (HODs) in managing freelance staff.
• Build strong relationships with production crew and integrate HR into the process.
• Provide guidance on HR matters, ensuring managers and employees receive appropriate support.
• Support recruitment activities, including job specifications, advertising, headhunting, and full-cycle hiring in collaboration with HODs.
• Oversee onboarding for new hires, ensuring proper documentation, contracts, and induction into studio life, providing a positive experience for all new employees.
• Assist HODs in providing career coaching and feedback sessions for freelance teams.
• Ensure international hires meet visa and legal requirements.
• Implement exit surveys and offboarding processes, monitoring feedback for continuous improvement.
• Stay updated on employment legislation and ensure company policies align with industry standards.
• Manage the HR system (HiBob), ensuring its effective use and ongoing development.
• Support management with performance issues and employee relations.
• Collaborate with the SISTER HR team to improve HR processes across production and the company.
• Plan and implement health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Support benchmarking and new role design, collaborating with the Head of HR on salary structures.
• Oversee benefits administration, including renewals and employee queries.
• Partner with SISTER HR and the Head of Culture on DEI initiatives and training programs, maximizing industry learning opportunities.

Position Requirements About You

• Experience at HR Generalist level or above.
• Experience in animation, VFX, gaming, or creative production industries is preferred.
• Passionate about fostering a working environment where people can excel and be their authentic selves.
• Knowledge of employment law, especially related to production freelancers.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, creative environment.
• Self-starter and proactive approach.
• Commercially minded with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Solutions-focused with excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work in the office three days a week (Tuesday to Thursday).

About Us

Locksmith Animation is a top-tier studio producing high-quality features and series from hubs in the UK and US. Led by a team with experience from Pixar, Illumination, Aardman, and Blue Sky, we are a trusted partner to major distributors. Our first film, Ron’s Gone Wrong, was released in 2021, and our second, That Christmas, launched on Netflix in December 2024. We are currently producing Bad Fairies in partnership with Warner Bros.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and underrepresented groups. We are an equal opportunities employer.

Please note: This is a London-based role, and candidates must have the right to work in the UK. Office hours are 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The role is part-time, three days a week, with flexible working options considered upon request.