Job Description
Head of People Operations
Greater Manchester (Hybrid)
Circa £100,000 + bonus + car + package
We are partnering with a major UK national retailer to appoint a Head of People Operations to lead and evolve its HR Shared Services function.
This is a critical leadership role responsible for delivering seamless, efficient and compliant HR operations across the organisation while improving systems, data insight and service delivery across the employee lifecycle.
Leading a team of 28 HR professionals (5 direct reports), you will play a key role in strengthening the operational backbone of the People function while helping to shape the organisation’s broader People Strategy.
The Opportunity
As Head of People Operations, you will lead a high-impact function responsible for core HR operational services including:
* HR administration and employee lifecycle management
* Payroll oversight and compliance
* HR systems and technology optimisation
* People data and analytics
* Contingent workforce management
* Continuous improvement across HR processes
You will ensure employees and managers receive fast, accurate and technology-enabled support, while driving improvements in efficiency, governance, service standards and the overall employee experience.
This role sits within the People Leadership Team and works closely with senior stakeholders across the business to deliver operational excellence and support key strategic initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the People Operations function, delivering high-quality HR services across the organisation
* Drive improvements in HR systems, technology and digital service delivery
* Oversee Payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely delivery
* Develop and monitor People metrics and KPI’s to improve performance and insight
* Ensure the secure and compliant management of people data, including GDPR requirements
* Identify and implement process improvements and operational efficiencies
* Manage relationships with third-party service providers, ensuring delivery against SLA’s
* Partner with senior HR and business leaders to support strategic people initiatives
* Lead and inspire a team, building a culture of inclusion, engagement and high performance
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for an experienced HR operations leader who combines strong operational expertise with strategic influence.
You will likely bring:
* Significant HR Operations / Shared Services leadership experience
* Experience leading large HR service teams and complex operational environments
* Strong exposure to HR systems and technology platforms
* A track record of driving operational improvements and change programmes
* Excellent analytical, problem-solving and stakeholder influencing skills
* Strong understanding of people data, governance and risk management
* The ability to operate confidently with senior leaders and cross-functional teams
You will be an empowering leader, able to guide teams with clarity and authority while delivering results in a fast-moving environment.
Why Join?
This role offers the opportunity to play a key leadership role within a well-known national retailer undergoing significant transformation, with the chance to:
* Lead a critical HR operations function at scale
* Shape how HR services are delivered across the organisation
* Drive improvements in HR technology, data and operational performance
* Work with senior leaders to support the evolution of the People strategy
Location
* Greater Manchester area (Hybrid working)
* Approximately 2–3 days per week in the office
Interested?
If you’re an experienced HR Operations or Shared Services leader looking to step into a highly visible leadership role within a large national organisation, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply directly or contact us for a confidential conversation.