HR Operations Manager

On behalf of our client, we are recruiting an experienced HR Operations Manager to lead and develop the HR Operations function. This role will ensure the delivery of a consistent, compliant and customer‑focused HR service across the organisation. The position oversees a team and works closely with colleagues responsible for HR data and HR projects.  The role is full time and offers hybrid working. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining efficient HR processes, supporting proactive recruitment activity and ensuring accurate data management within the organisation’s HR information system. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership • Lead, coach and support HR administrative teams to deliver a high‑quality HR operations service. • Oversee day‑to‑day activities including onboarding, offboarding, lifecycle administration, contract coordination, probation processes and employment checks. • Act as the escalation point for complex HR queries, ensuring timely, consistent and accurate advice. First Line Advisory Support • Manage the delivery of first‑line HR guidance across areas such as absence, conduct, capability, policy interpretation, family‑friendly processes and general terms and conditions. • Ensure advice is compliant, practical and aligned with organisational needs. Compliance & Policy Governance • Maintain and update HR policies in line with UK employment legislation and organisational requirements. • Ensure full compliance across right‑to‑work checks, data protection obligations, secure data handling and audit processes. • Support the review and development of policies in partnership with key stakeholders. HR Data, Reporting & HRIS • Oversee the accuracy, integrity and reporting of HR data. • Support effective utilisation of the HRIS, including workflow oversight, problem‑solving, data quality checks and process improvement. • Produce regular HR metrics and insights to inform senior management. Continuous Improvement • Identify and implement opportunities to enhance HR processes, increase efficiency and improve employee experience. • Support the adoption of best practice across HR operations and contribute to modernising the employee lifecycle. Talent Acquisition Oversight • Ensure recruitment activity is delivered in a timely and compliant manner across varying contract types. • Monitor recruitment metrics such as time to hire and retention. • Manage recruitment‑related budgets, including agency spend and external service providers. • Support continuous improvement of the recruitment process, including interview standards, HRIS utilisation and fairness across all hiring practices. • Collaborate on exit‑related insights to inform improvements to reward, recognition and engagement strategies. Stakeholder Engagement • Build effective working relationships with HR, finance, payroll and operational leaders. • Ensure a collaborative, service‑focused approach to HR delivery. Skills & Experience Experience in an HR Operations Manager or senior HR operations role. • Strong background in HR administration and lifecycle processes. • Experience leading HR support teams. • Working knowledge of HR information systems. • Strong understanding of UK employment law and HR compliance. • High attention to detail in HR data management. • Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills. • Ability to work at pace and manage competing priorities. • CIPD Level 5