SAP HR Senior Systems Lead in Manchester

A Fantastic Opportunity: In this role, you will lead the project management of the HR and Payroll elements of our SAP system, ensuring streamlined functionality, consistent performance, and continual development of system capability. You will act as the HR systems expert, supporting enhancements across SAP and other integrated platforms to ensure seamless delivery of HR information and payroll services. Working closely with Internal IT, third party suppliers, and wider business teams, you’ll help maintain effective, fit for purpose system processes and ensure strong governance and compliance across HR Information, Payroll, and Benefits.

You will be responsible for system governance and managing the annual calendar of IT supported deliverables, including organisational structures, controls, and management information requirements. A key aspect of your role will involve mapping HR and payroll processes, advising on legal data requirements, and overseeing robust system testing to ensure continuity of service. You will also lead on disaster recovery planning for SAP and maintain high standards of internal controls, data protection, and system security.

Another key part of the position will be designing, developing, and maintaining meaningful HR management information using tools such as Power BI. You will provide both routine and ad hoc reporting to support business needs, ensuring documentation is always audit-ready and aligned with group requirements. In addition, you will identify opportunities to improve system integrity, efficiency, and alignment with the HR strategy, escalating issues and recommending solutions where needed.

As a leader, you will manage and develop a small MI and Systems Team, supporting the delivery of key annual processes such as benefit enrolment, performance reviews, and bonus cycles. You will also play a vital role in supporting knowledge transfer across the wider HR team to ensure consistent, accurate use of system functionality. Working collaboratively with internal IT leads and external suppliers, you will oversee SAP updates, manage development activity, and approve system changes within agreed budgets.

What we’re looking for: We welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences who meet the following criteria:

• Expert knowledge of SAP HCM and Payroll essential
• Knowledge of SAP HCM/Payroll configuration essential
• SAP HCM certification desirable
• Project Management qualification or extensive experience
• Experience of Developing IT Systems
• Experience of using and developing Power BI
• Experience of managing external IT support (off shore)
• Previous People Management experience desirable

What we’re offering: We value your expertise and inclusive leadership. In return, you’ll receive:

• An annual bonus scheme
• 25 days annual leave increasing with length of service
• Private Healthcare
• An employee rewards portal offering discounts on several well-known brands
• A market-leading contributory pension scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Opportunity for professional development through our L&D function.

Our Commitment to Inclusion: We’re proud to foster a workplace where everyone can thrive. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We believe that embracing our differences makes us stronger.