Sussex-by-the-Sea
Your Local HR Consultancy for Small Businesses in East & West Sussex Welcome to The HR Dept Sussex- by-the-Sea your trusted provider of outsourced HR and Employment Law support for small to medium-sized businesses across Eastbourne, Brighton, Hove, Chichester, Worthing, Arun, Adur, Horsham, and surrounding Sussex areas.
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- Phone 01323 403500
- Email sbtsinfo@hrdept.co.uk
- Address Sussex Innovation Centre, Science Park Square, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9SB
As a local, hands-on HR consultancy, we specialise in helping business owners manage their people effectively, without the cost or complexity of an in-house HR team.
Whether you're looking to stay compliant with employment law, resolve employee issues, or streamline your HR processes, we're here to help.
Why Outsource Your HR with Us?
Local Expertise
Based in Sussex, we understand the needs of regional businesses and the challenges you face.
Tailored HR Support
From contracts and handbooks to disciplinary procedures and performance management, we deliver custom solutions that fit your business.
Affordable & Flexible
Access professional HR advice and ongoing support when you need it.
Compliance & Peace of Mind
Keep up with ever-changing UK employment law and reduce your risk of costly claims.
Pragmatic advice
Having run our own successful business for several years, we know how important practical, realistic advice is and tell you what you can do, not what you can't.
We support a wide range of sectors, including retail, hospitality, construction, care, and professional services providing everything from day-to-day HR advice to help with redundancies, grievances, TUPE, recruitment, and employee wellbeing.
Free HR Health Check for Your Business
Start with a FREE HR review of your current contracts of employment, staff handbooks, and policies. We'll identify risks, gaps, and areas where your business can save time and reduce costs. Get in touch with The HR Dept Sussex by the Sea today to discover how our expert outsourced HR support can help you protect and grow your business.
The Team
Serena May
DirectorSerena May is a Director of our Sussex-based HR consultancy, bringing over 20 years of hands-on HR experience to small and medium-sized businesses across Sussex. Outside work, Serena enjoys travelling and long walks with her two Dobermans.
Susan Beeby
DirectorSusan Beeby is a Director at The HR Dept Sussex- by- the- Sea, bringing over 25 years of comprehensive HR experience to businesses throughout East and West Sussex.
Beth Jones
HR ManagerBeth is an experienced HR professional, guiding clients through complex employee relations—from restructures and TUPE to disciplinary matters. Beyond work, Beth loves running the Downs, sea swimming, and spending time with her family and their dog.
Karen Scannell
HR AdviserWith 25+ years in HR, Karen brings strong expertise in case management and problem‑solving, guiding organisations through complex employee issues with skill and care. Outside work, she’s a proud mum of two energetic boys and loves cooking up a storm in the kitchen
Beth Holman
HR AdministratorBeth makes HR admin simple and stress‑free through clear communication, efficient processes, and a strong focus on client success. Beth has recently moved to Seaford with her partner and Bruce, their cheese‑loving mini sausage dog
Andy May
Business Development ManagerAndy is our Business Development Manager, bringing 25 years experience in the Fire Service, leading teams, training and conducting complex investigations. He focuses on people, performance and risk. Outside work, he enjoys travelling and snowboarding.
Our services
Starting out
Choosing The Right Path
Navigating Problems
Changing Course
End Of The Road
Our location
We have recently needed support in an HR process and the HR Dept-by-the-Sea have been absolutely brilliant throughout. They manage to combine legal expertise, with commercial sense, giving both administrative support in terms of the paperwork, but also the necessary 'moral' support needed. I cannot recommend them highly enough.Sarah Driver, Rathfinny Wine Estate (2026)
Karen from HR Dept helped us through a tricky redundancy process. She talked us through step by step, offering advice along the way, and was always available on the end of the phone. It was so reassuring knowing that we were following the correct procedures and I have no hesitation in recommending Karen, and The HR Dept.Berts Homestore (2026)
We have worked with the HR Dept since setting up Pear Properties, and their support has been invaluable from day one. They are always on hand to deal with any questions quickly, providing clear, practical advice and ad hoc support whenever needed. We also really value the regular updates on employment law and wider HR matters, which help keep our business informed and compliant as we grow. Their knowledge, responsiveness and ongoing support give us real peace of mind, and we would highly recommend their services.Pear Properties (2025)
We brought Beth and her team on board when the business was first set up, knowing we’d need external HR support. They’ve been absolutely invaluable ever since. With our fast paced and ever changing environment, their professionalism and patience have truly made a difference.Hannah, Foundry Eastbourne (2025)
On behalf of Lincs Dobermann Rescue, I want to thank Serena, Beth and Emma for the fabulous service provided to us. Professional, efficient and friendly. Simply first class. We would not hesitate to recommend your services.Ellen Hearn, Lincs Dobermann Rescue (2025)
I cannot recommend HR Dept Sussex-by-the-Sea enough, Beth has helped me with some challenging situations. Offering a very reactive service and holding my hand which has enabled me to be both respectful and competent in our HR responses.Sarra Hawes, Hawes Construction Group (2025)
