Cover Letter Example
HR Manager
Example cover letter for a hr manager application. The structure — greeting, opening, body, closing — is what UK recruiters expect. Use as a starting point and adapt to your own experience and the vacancy.
Victoria Clarkson
I am writing to express my strong interest in the HR Manager UK role at John Lewis Partnership. The combination of your organisation and this position aligns closely with the direction in which I want to take my career.
In my current role as HR Manager UK at Mendix (Siemens), I have gained experience in full HR cycle ownership within scale-ups and mid-market organisations. Alongside that, I actively focus on measurable reduction in employee turnover through onboarding redesign — for me that is an essential part of the work. I recognise in the John Lewis Partnership job advert the way these elements come together.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further in person. You can reach me at victoria.clarkson@example.co.uk or on +44 7700 556677.
Template: Modern · Addressed to: John Lewis Partnership
How to write a strong cover letter as a hr manager
The four standard blocks — and what to put in each.
1. Opening — why THIS role
In one sentence name the specific role and company. In the second sentence note where you saw the vacancy if relevant. Avoid generic openers like 'I am writing to apply for your position'.
2. Body — why you fit
This is where you make the match. Take two or three concrete elements from your background that map one-to-one to the vacancy. For hr manager: mention results in numbers (where possible), specific systems, certifications or projects.
3. Company motivation — why THIS organisation
One or two sentences on why you specifically want to work there. Concrete and specific: a product, a strategic move, a cultural marker.
4. Closing — concrete call to action
Ask for an interview. State your availability. Sign off with 'Yours sincerely'. Total length: 250-400 words, one page.