Global HR Technology and Operations Portfolio & Change Manager

The purpose of this role is to oversee and manage a portfolio of projects and initiatives across the Ardagh Group. The post holder is responsible for overseeing the implementation, management, and optimisation of HR technology solutions ensuring the smooth operation of HR systems, enhancing data integrity, and driving digital transformation within the global HR teams. This role involves strategic planning, execution, and change management to ensure successful delivery and alignment of HR transformation and HR technology across the business. This role will report to the Global Director, HR Technology & Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• HR Technology Operations and Portfolio Management
• Working in partnership with the Global Director, HR Technology and Operations, oversee all HR transformation and HR related technology to ensure functionality and efficiency across both our glass and metal businesses.
• Support the digital transformation of HR processes and the implementation of the strategic vision, staying updated on HR technology and best practice trends.
• Support and maintain a roadmap for portfolio and change management activities across HR digital and transformation agendas.
• Partner with IT to integrate systems and ensure security and SoX compliance standards are met.
• Establish a structured approach to manage the groups portfolio of projects and initiatives.
• Working with the wider HR technology operations team, prioritise, support and monitor projects, sprints and initiatives based on strategic goals and resource availability.
• Lead cross-functional project teams to deliver projects on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Manage project risks, issues, and dependencies, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Own and report on portfolio performance metrics.
• Communicate the status and benefits of the portfolio to stakeholders such as Global HR Directors, CIOs and CHROs ensuring transparency and buy-in.
• Implement best practices and lessons learned to improve portfolio management processes.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the portfolio.
• Provide insights and recommendations to senior leadership based on performance data.

Change Management

• Own and drive change across the portfolio.
• Develop and implement change management strategies to support HR projects both operational and technology.
• In collaboration with group functions define clear objectives, timelines, and metrics to measure the success of change initiatives.
• Conduct stakeholder analysis to identify key individuals and groups affected by changes and engagement to ensure buy-in and support for changes.
• Working in partnership with our L&D and technology teams to develop training programs and materials to equip our employees with the skills and knowledge needed to adapt to changes across our technology landscape.
• Working with our group communications team, design and implement effective communication plans to keep global stakeholders informed and engaged.
• Create and deliver communication and training plans to facilitate smooth transitions.

Skills, Qualifications, Experience and Competencies:

• Ability to make informed decisions based on data and insights.
• Be comfortable working in “the grey”.
• Strategic thinking to balance short-term needs with long-term objectives and motivate stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and modify plans as needed.
• Resilience to manage setbacks and maintain momentum during change processes.
• Empathetic approach to understanding the needs and concerns of team members and stakeholders.
• Supportive leadership style that fosters trust and collaboration.
• Ability to analyse complex situations.
• Creative problem-solving skills to address challenges.
• Proven experience of 10+ years in technology portfolio management and change management role, preferably with global exposure in manufacturing, FMCG or Retail industries.
• Experience managing large, complex HR programmes across technology and transformation.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.