Payroll & People Operations Manager

JOB SUMMARY This role works in close collaboration with the People & Culture Director to deliver an outstanding Payroll & HR operations service to the business. The People Operations Manager owns the employee lifecycle processes, partnering with line managers, suppliers, and key stakeholders to deliver a progressive and meaningful People strategy through operational excellence. The role combines hands-on execution of core processes with strategic oversight of continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, compliance, and employee experience. Success in this role will depend on a proactive approach to process improvement, data accuracy, and stakeholder collaboration across all levels of the organisation. QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE * Proven experience in a People Operations or HR Operations leadership role, ideally within a fast-paced, multi-site or operational environment. * Demonstrable experience in HR data and reporting, turning insights into action. * Relevant experience managing employee lifecycle processes. * Strong working knowledge of HR systems, payroll, benefits, and employment law compliance. * Proven experience in payroll processing and governance * Demonstrated ability to improve processes and systems. * Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. * Experience managing and developing others. * CIPD Level 5 or 7 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES * Lead the People Operations function, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery of core HR processes across the employee lifecycle. * Oversee and own our payroll and pensions processes in an effective and compliant manner. * Manage all required immigration matters, including responding to inquiries from incoming employees, managing required work permits or visa applications, ensuring compliance with all applicable immigration compliance in all jurisdictions. * Support with first-line employee relations matters, and focus on proactive reduction of cases through partnership/training of line managers. * Oversee HR systems (HRIS), payroll, and benefits, ensuring integration, compliance, and continuous improvement in line with business needs and ROI. * Partner with the wider People & Culture team to streamline processes, improve employee experience, and drive automation and self-service. * Ensure accuracy and compliance in payroll, pensions, GDPR, right-to-work, and employment law requirements. * Generate and analyse HR data to provide insights, trends, and recommendations that inform strategic workforce decisions. * Motivate, support and manage our People Coordinator. * Support policy development and compliance, ensuring all documentation remains current, practical, and aligned to business culture. BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES: * Highly organised, analytical, and passionate about accuracy and detail. * Commercially aware, with a pragmatic, solution-focused mindset. * Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills. * Emotionally intelligent, adaptable, and collaborative under pressure. * Curious and proactive, with a continuous improvement mindset. LOCATION AND TRAVEL * Role is based in London at Trinity Buoy Wharf