At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, manage employee relations, and oversee recruitment processes.
- Company: Join a well-established organisation in the education sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days holiday, pension scheme, and free onsite parking.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career development.
- Why this job: Step into a visible HR leadership role and influence meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management or as a strong HR Generalist ready for leadership.
The predicted salary is between 33750 - 41250 £ per year.
Location: Oxford
Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 + excellent benefits
Job type: Permanent
Working pattern: Full time
Industry: Education & Training / HR Generalist
Company: Hays
Consultant: Charlotte Chandler
Are you an experienced HR professional with a strong Employee Relations background, ready to take ownership of a broad operational role? Or perhaps you're a Senior HR Advisor / HR Generalist looking to step up into your first leadership role? This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established organisation in Oxford, working closely with the Head of HR to deliver a high-quality, proactive HR service across a diverse workforce.
About the Role
This is a hands-on HR Operations Manager role, combining day-to-day operational leadership with the opportunity to shape and improve HR processes across the organisation. You’ll take ownership of:
- Employee relations casework
- Recruitment oversight and delivery
- HR operational processes and service standards
- Supporting wider HR projects and system improvements
You’ll also lead a small HR team, ensuring consistency, efficiency and high-quality service across the function.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a broad range of Employee Relations casework, including complex and sensitive cases
- Lead on sickness and absence management, including long-term cases
- Oversee the end-to-end recruitment process, working closely with hiring managers
- Ensure contracts and onboarding processes are delivered accurately and efficiently
- Provide day-to-day leadership and guidance to the HR team
- Monitor HR workflows, inboxes and response times to ensure strong service delivery
- Act as a key point of contact for managers and department heads
- Support the development of HR policies and procedures
- Contribute to HR projects, including the implementation of a new HRIS/recruitment system
About You
- Proven experience as an HR Operations Manager / HR Manager OR A strong HR Generalist / Senior HR Advisor ready to step up into management
- Solid Employee Relations experience (essential)
- Experience managing complex casework in a busy operational environment
- Strong generalist HR knowledge across the employee lifecycle
- Confidence working with stakeholders and influencing decision-making
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach
- The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Desirable:
- Experience supporting HR systems or process improvement initiatives
- Previous experience mentoring or supporting junior team members
Why Join?
- Opportunity to step into a broad, visible HR leadership role
- Work closely with an experienced Head of HR
- Exposure to meaningful HR transformation projects
- Varied and impactful role within a collaborative environment
Package & Benefits
- £50,000 – £55,000
- 30 days holiday + bank holidays
- Generous pension scheme
- Cycle to work & electric car schemes
- Season ticket loans
- Free Onsite parking available – first come first serve basis
Additional Information
- Full-time role (37.5 hours per week) flex start and finish times
- Based onsite in Oxford (5 days per week)
If you're looking for a role where you can take ownership, influence change and develop your career, we’d love to hear from you.
HR Manager in Oxford employer: Hays
Join a vibrant secondary school that prioritises excellence in education and fosters a supportive community for both students and staff. As the Head of Mathematics, you will benefit from a competitive salary, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and growth. This role not only allows you to lead a dedicated team but also to make a significant impact on student achievement in a welcoming environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Manager in Oxford
✨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 Hays!
✨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 Hays.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Manager in Oxford
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 Hays. 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 Hays 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 Hays. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hays'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 Hays
✨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 Hays.
✨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 Hays 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 Hays and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
