Head of HR Operations - Perm

Job Title: Head of HR OperationsLocation: North WestReports to: HR DirectorSalary: £75,000 - £95,000 PA

Sector: Financial Services

Job Summary:

The Head of HR Operations will oversee and lead the Human Resources operations function across the organisation. This key leadership role ensures the delivery of efficient, compliant, and strategic HR services, including employee lifecycle management, HR systems, payroll, and compliance. The Head of HR Operations will collaborate with senior leadership to optimise HR processes, support the company’s strategic objectives, and enhance employee experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Strategy:
  • Develop and implement HR operational strategies that align with the company’s business objectives.
  • Lead and manage the HR operations team, ensuring high performance, engagement, and continuous improvement.
  • Partner with senior management to support workforce planning, talent management, and organisational development initiatives.
• HR Systems & Processes:
  • Oversee the administration of HR systems (e.g., payroll, HRIS, benefits platforms) ensuring they are optimised for efficiency and accuracy.
  • Ensure accurate data management and reporting, providing insights to senior leaders for strategic decision-making.
  • Lead the continuous improvement of HR processes, systems, and practices, leveraging technology to drive efficiency.
• Compliance & Risk Management:
  • Ensure compliance with all employment laws and regulations, including data protection (GDPR), health and safety, and equal opportunity laws.
  • Oversee the management of HR policies, ensuring they are up to date, legally compliant, and aligned with best practices.
  • Manage risk and oversee investigations into employee relations matters, such as grievances, disciplinaries, and redundancies.
• Payroll & Benefits Administration:
  • Oversee payroll operations to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Manage the administration of employee benefits, ensuring they are competitive and effectively communicated to employees.
• Reporting & Analytics:
  • Provide regular reporting to senior management on key HR metrics such as turnover, absence, headcount, and diversity.
  • Use data and analytics to identify trends and recommend strategies for improvement in HR service delivery.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in a senior HR operations role, preferably within a complex or multi-site organisation.
• Strong knowledge of employment law, HR systems (such as iTrent), payroll, and compliance requirements.
• Leadership experience, with a track record of managing and developing HR teams.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of influencing at all levels of the organisation.
• Analytical mindset, with experience using HR metrics to drive decision-making.
• CIPD Level 7 or equivalent HR qualification is highly desirable.

Personal Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into action.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized.
• Approachable, collaborative, and able to build strong relationships across the business.
• Resilient and adaptable to changing business needs.

For additional information on this role, please contact Imogen Parr: