We are seeking a Group Head of People Services to provide operational leadership across our People Services function. This role ensures the consistent, compliant, and high-quality delivery of all HR services under the strategic direction of the Group HR Director. The successful candidate will translate the HR and People Strategy into effective operational practice, oversee employee relations, HR operations, safer recruitment compliance, pay, and HRIS implementation, ensuring a positive employee experience across the organisation.

This role is being offered on an interim to permanent basis.

Purpose of the Role:

• Operational Leadership & Service Delivery: Lead the day-to-day delivery of People Services, ensuring high standards and compliance across all HR processes. Translate strategic plans into operational workflows and deliverables.
• Leadership & Management: Manage and direct staff to promote the highest standards across all People Services activities. Serve as Deputy DSL for People, covering safeguarding duties when necessary.
• Team Leadership & Development: Manage performance, appraisal, and development of People Services staff, setting annual performance targets and coaching staff to achieve their full potential.
• Employee Relations, Litigation & Casework Oversight: Oversee complex employee relations cases, ensuring fair, timely, and legally compliant outcomes. Assist with Employment Tribunal litigation casework.
• Recruitment, Onboarding & Safeguarding Compliance: Manage the Group’s recruitment and selection processes, ensuring compliance with safeguarding procedures.
• HR Operations, Systems & Data: Assist with the operational implementation and optimisation of HRIS systems, ensuring GDPR compliance and accurate payroll processing.
• Organisational Change & Workforce Planning: Support organisational change programmes and manage restructures, TUPE, and redundancy processes.
• Quality & Continuous Improvement: Work to complete the annual self-assessment report for People Services and implement action plans with clear success measures.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Qualifications: CIPD Qualified Level 7 or equivalent professional/academic qualification.
• Experience: Significant experience in HR operations and recruitment, managing organisational change, and handling Employment Tribunal litigation.
• Skills: Strong leadership and people management skills, excellent communication, ability to analyse and solve problems, and a commitment to promoting equality and diversity.

Benefits:

• Amazing pension scheme
• Flexible working
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Inclusive and supportive work environment.