At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting HR projects that transform employee experiences and improve processes.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to shaping the future of HR.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with senior leaders and work on high-profile initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving change and enhancing workplace culture.
- Qualifications: Degree in HR or related field with experience in managing complex HR projects.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR Project Manager to join our HR team and play a key role in delivering strategic people initiatives and transformation programmes across the business. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a strong project management background, excellent stakeholder management skills, and a passion for driving change. Working closely with HR leaders, business stakeholders, and external partners, you will lead projects that enhance the employee experience, improve HR processes, and support the delivery of our people strategy.
About the Role
As HR Project Manager, you will be responsible for leading and delivering a portfolio of HR projects and programmes, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and aligned to business objectives. You will support a range of initiatives including organisational change, workforce planning, employee engagement, HR process improvements, and HR systems implementations. This role will be instrumental in driving innovation and continuous improvement across the HR function.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the planning, execution, governance and delivery of HR projects and programmes.
- Developing project plans, timelines, budgets, risk registers and reporting frameworks.
- Managing project risks, issues and dependencies to ensure successful outcomes.
- Supporting the design and implementation of HR transformation initiatives.
- Developing and delivering effective change management and communication plans.
- Partnering with HR, IT and external suppliers on system implementations and upgrades.
- Facilitating workshops, steering groups and stakeholder meetings.
- Providing regular updates and project reporting to senior leaders.
- Identifying opportunities to improve HR processes, systems and employee experience.
- Promoting project management best practice and governance within HR.
About You
We’re looking for a highly organised and collaborative project professional who can build strong relationships, influence stakeholders, and successfully lead complex change programmes. You will have:
Essential
- Degree qualified in Human Resources, Business Management, Project Management, or a related discipline.
- Proven experience managing complex HR projects or programmes.
- Strong understanding of project management methodologies such as Agile, Waterfall or Hybrid approaches.
- Experience leading organisational change and change management activities.
- Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Experience working with HR systems, technology projects or digital transformation initiatives.
- The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Desirable
- PRINCE2, PMP, Agile Practitioner or equivalent project management qualification.
- CIPD qualification or equivalent HR certification.
- Experience supporting organisational design, workforce planning or HR transformation programmes.
- Experience implementing HR systems such as Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM, UKG or similar platforms.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact by delivering projects that improve the way we work and support our people. You’ll work on high-profile initiatives, collaborate with senior stakeholders across the business, and help shape the future of HR.
Base Location: Doxford, Derby, Thurmaston or Lacon House (with hybrid working)
If you’re passionate about driving change, improving employee experiences, and delivering successful people-focused projects, we’d love to hear from you.
Closing Date: Friday 11th September 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. Therefore, early applications are encouraged.
Senior HR Business Manager employer: Arriva Group
Arriva Road Transport Services is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in York or Derby with the flexibility of hybrid working. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, free travel on Arriva services after six months, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture where every team member can thrive and grow professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior HR Business Manager
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Arriva Group!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Arriva Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior HR Business Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Arriva Group. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Arriva Group and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Arriva Group. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Arriva Group's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva Group
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Arriva Group.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Arriva Group will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Arriva Group and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
