HR Manager/Director (Transformation)

HR Manager/Director (Transformation)

Rate - 750 (a day)

Duration - 6 Months (Initially)

Location - London (Hybrid)

Ir35 - Outside

The HR Manager/Director for Transformation will lead the design and execution of strategic HR initiatives to support institutional growth, efficiency, and adaptability within the higher education sector. This role focuses on implementing continuous improvement strategies, driving HR transformation projects, and enhancing employee engagement and experience. The successful candidate will bring expertise in change management, project management, and HR best practices, enabling the institution to meet its evolving goals while fostering a positive, inclusive work culture.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic HR Transformation
   • Lead and manage HR transformation initiatives to improve efficiency, talent management, and alignment with institutional goals.
   • Develop and implement HR policies, programs, and practices that support continuous improvement and scalability across the institution.
   • Oversee transformation projects, including digital transformation within HR systems, streamlining workflows, and enhancing employee self-service options.
2. Process Improvement & Efficiency
   • Identify and analyze HR processes to optimize workflows, reduce costs, and improve service quality across all HR functions.
   • Implement continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean or Six Sigma, to address inefficiencies and maximize HR service delivery.
   • Track and assess the impact of process improvements through established KPIs and metrics, reporting on progress to executive leadership.
3. Change Management & Employee Engagement
   • Lead change management initiatives to ensure smooth adoption of new policies, processes, and systems, fostering a positive employee experience.
   • Develop and execute communication and training plans to support organizational transformation and employee engagement.
   • Act as a champion for an inclusive, engaging, and supportive workplace culture that values employee feedback and fosters innovation.
4. HR Data & Technology Transformation
   • Oversee the implementation and optimization of HR technology, including HRIS, payroll, and performance management systems, to support data-driven decision-making.
   • Leverage analytics and reporting to provide insights on workforce trends, process improvement, and project outcomes.
   • Ensure HR technology aligns with data privacy, compliance, and security standards.
5. Leadership & Collaboration
   • Lead and mentor HR team members, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment focused on continuous improvement.
   • Collaborate with key stakeholders across departments, including IT, Finance, and Academic Affairs, to drive and support transformation projects.
   • Conduct regular project reviews, evaluations, and post-implementation assessments to measure impact and identify lessons learned.

Qualifications & Skills:

Essential:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role focused on transformation and change.
• Demonstrated expertise in HR process improvement, project management, and change management within complex organizations.
• Strong knowledge of HRIS systems, HR analytics, and data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.

Desirable:

• Master's degree in HR, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certifications in SHRM, CIPD, PMP, or Lean Six Sigma.
• Previous experience in the higher education sector or a similarly regulated environment.