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- Tasks: Lead HR technology strategy and execution for the RAIL sector, focusing on Workday and AI initiatives.
- Company: Join Hitachi Europe, a global leader in technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Remote work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR tech while making a real impact in a critical sector.
- Qualifications: 10-15 years in HR technology with strong Workday experience and leadership skills.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values harmony, trust, and pioneering spirit.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Location: Remote - Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
Job ID: R0119387
Date Posted: 2026-02-05
Company Name: HITACHI EUROPE LTD.
Profession (Job Category): Other
Job Schedule: Full time
Remote: Yes
Role Overview
The Director Digital HR Technology – RAIL Sector is accountable for leading the HR technology strategy, execution, and adoption for the RAIL sector, aligned with the Global Digital HR (DHR) vision and governance. This role owns Workday as the core HR platform for the sector, oversees complementary HR technologies, and leads AI and automation initiatives that enhance workforce experience and operational effectiveness. The Director manages a small sector HR technology team and serves as the primary point of contact (POC) to Global Digital HR, ensuring seamless alignment between global standards and sector-specific needs.
Key Outcomes of the Role:
- Effective and compliant deployment and adoption of Workday across the RAIL sector.
- Strong alignment between sector HR priorities and global HR technology strategy.
- Measurable business value from AI-enabled HR solutions.
- Clear governance, accountability, and simplification of the HR technology landscape.
Responsibilities
Sector HR Technology Leadership- Own the end-to-end HR technology landscape for the RAIL sector.
- Produce and maintain the 3-year HR technology roadmap and budget.
- Act as the senior HR technology advisor to RAIL HR leadership.
- Balance global standardization with sector-specific operational requirements.
- Represent RAIL in global HR technology governance forums.
- Lead sector-level ownership of Workday in partnership with Global DHR Product Leads.
- Sponsor Rail Sector projects and oversee configuration, enhancements, releases, and prioritization across all Functional Areas: Core HCM, Recruiting & Onboarding, Talent & Performance, Compensation & Advanced Compensation, Security, Learning, Absence, Time Tracking, Reporting and Payroll (where applicable).
- Ensure high-quality data, reporting consistency, and compliance with global standards.
- Drive adoption of Workday best practices and limit non-standard customizations.
- Deploy, manage and evolve the Tier 0, 1 & 2 Workday support model. Primary customer PoC for Tier 3 from Global DHR Delivery team.
- Govern sector usage of complementary HR technologies, including: Payroll and Benefit platforms in conjunction with Sector Countries and HR Shared Services.
- HR Case & Knowledge Management (Workday Help and/or ServiceNow HRSD).
- Talent tools (assessments, interviewing, skills intelligence).
- Learning Management Systems (LMS); Learning Experience (LXP) platforms and integrations with learning content providers.
- Contingent workforce VMS platforms.
- Partner with IT and vendors to ensure: Secure, scalable integrations, Stable operations and release coordination, Cost and vendor rationalization.
- Serve as the sector lead for AI in HR initiatives, aligned with global AI governance.
- Identify, pilot, and scale AI use cases across HR from Hire to Retire.
- Ensure responsible AI practices, including bias mitigation, data privacy, and auditability.
- Lead and develop a sector HR technology team, including: Direct management of sector HR tech resources.
- Governance of Regional Digital HR support teams.
- Coordination with global shared services / support model POCs.
- Define clear roles, ownership boundaries, and escalation paths.
- Foster a high-performing, globally distributed team culture.
- Act as the primary POC between the RAIL sector and Global Digital HR.
- Translate sector needs into structured, prioritized requirements.
- Ensure sector adherence to: Global HR technology architecture, Data, security, and compliance standards, Release and change governance.
- Monitor and hold Global DHR to account for: Application availability, Service and Project delivery, Cost and efficiency.
- Contribute to global roadmap shaping and strategic discussion.
- Collaboration and support with other DHR Sector Leads.
- Drive adoption and user experience across the RAIL sector.
- Define and track KPIs related to: System engagement; utilization; Employee & Manager self-service, HR operational efficiency, Business value and ROI.
- Develop and promote all technology learning channels and guides.
- Partner with HR Operations, Change, and Communications teams to embed technology into everyday work.
What you bring to the team
We’re looking for a team player, who is motivated by delivering great work and the Hitachi vision. The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and background required:
- 10–15+ years of experience in HR Technology / Digital HR / HRIS.
- Strong, hands-on experience with Workday in complex, global environments.
- Proven people leadership experience (direct and matrixed teams).
- Experience operating in global, federated HR models.
- Strong understanding of HR processes, integrations, and data governance.
- Excellent verbal and written communications – primary business language is English.
Preferred
- Experience leading AI or automation initiatives in HR.
- Exposure to applications in Case Management; Contingent VMS; skills & competencies; learning; payroll and benefits.
- Experience in Rail, Transportation, Infrastructure, or Engineering-led industries.
- Prior experience working across Europe and/or India delivery models.
Our Values
We are proud to say we are an equal opportunity employer and welcome all applicants for employment without attention to any factor that doesn’t impact your ability to do the job, including race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. We are proud of Japanese heritage, with our values expressed through the Hitachi Spirit: Wa–Harmony, Trust, Respect; Makoto–Sincerity, Fairness, Honesty, Integrity; Kaitakusha-Seishin–Pioneering Spirit, Challenge.
This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of HR technology for a critical global sector, working at the intersection of Workday, AI, and large-scale digital transformation, while being deeply connected to a global HR technology community.
Sr Manager/Director Digital HR Technology – RAIL Sector (m/f/d) in Reading employer: H-E Parts
Contact Detail:
H-E Parts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sr Manager/Director Digital HR Technology – RAIL Sector (m/f/d) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the RAIL sector on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in interviews! Prepare examples of how you've led HR tech initiatives or improved processes. We want to see your impact, so make it memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Research Hitachi's values and culture. Tailor your conversations to show how you align with their vision. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Sr Manager/Director Digital HR Technology – RAIL Sector (m/f/d) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with HR technology and Workday, as well as any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the RAIL sector and how you can contribute to our digital HR strategy. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use metrics where possible to demonstrate the impact of your work in previous roles. We love seeing how you've added value in past positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at H-E Parts
✨Know Your Workday Inside Out
Since this role revolves around Workday, make sure you’re well-versed in its functionalities. Brush up on your knowledge of Workday’s Core HCM, Recruiting, and Performance modules. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past roles and how they can be leveraged for the RAIL sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position requires strong people leadership experience. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead teams, manage projects, and drive change. Think about times when you’ve successfully navigated complex HR technology landscapes and how you’ve fostered a high-performing team culture.
✨Align with Global Standards
Understanding the balance between global standardisation and sector-specific needs is crucial. Familiarise yourself with the company’s global HR technology strategy and be prepared to discuss how you would ensure alignment while addressing unique challenges within the RAIL sector.
✨Emphasise AI and Automation Experience
As the role involves leading AI initiatives, be ready to share your experiences with AI in HR. Discuss specific projects where you’ve implemented AI solutions, focusing on outcomes like efficiency improvements or enhanced employee experiences. This will show your capability to innovate within the HR tech space.
