At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, drive digital improvements, and enhance employee experience.
- Company: Join the London Fire Brigade, one of the largest firefighting organisations globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, extra leave, and access to fitness facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on HR services while supporting those who keep London safe.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR operations, systems, and industrial relations required.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 94755 - 104841 £ per year.
Salary range: £94,755 - £104,841 per annum
Contract type: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time
Application closing date: 4 PM on Tuesday 10 February 2026
London Fire Brigade (LFB) is London’s fire and rescue service – one of the largest firefighting and rescue organisations in the world. We are here to make London a safer city. Employing over 5000 people across our operational team (our firefighters), control (our call handlers who answer 999 calls), fire safety and our non-operational team (our team who work behind the scenes to support our front-line services, which includes Fleet, IT, HR, Finance, Procurement, Communications team and many more).
To ensure continuing improvement in how we deliver HR services at LFB, we are recruiting a Head of HR Operations and Systems. This is a key time to be joining the team as we head towards the implementation of a new HR Information System and seek to continuously improve the part we play in supporting our colleagues every day as they keep London safe.
About the Role
The postholder will be resilient, and have a keenness to drive improvement across HR Operations, including our Service Desk, Policy, Pay and Reward and Pensions functions. They will take responsibility and accountability for reviewing all HR systems and processes and modernising them to bring about an improved and easier staff experience.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Lead on all People Services system, data and digital improvements including the implementation of new HR systems, innovation e.g. AI, and maximising the opportunity for automation and empowerment of managers and staff.
- Senior lead in People Services on Industrial relations, including policy oversight and engagement with Representative bodies.
- Manage pay, reward, pensions and policy to ensure compliance and transparent, fair and inclusive employee relations.
We value the diversity of our employees and aim to recruit a workforce which reflects our diverse communities across London. The London Fire Commissioner is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we positively welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals, irrespective of people’s age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances. We have guidance in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability.
Assessment Overview
Stage 1
To apply, please complete the online application, upload a copy of your up-to-date CV, provide a cover letter to provide evidence to address the following selection criteria:
- Provide evidence of your experience of HR Operations and Systems (HRIS) including data and digital improvements including the implementation of new HR systems, innovation e.g. AI, and maximising the opportunity for automation and empowerment of managers and staff.
- Advise, guide and support senior managers on all aspects of pay, reward and pensions including the associated compliance and governance.
- Explain and describe your experience of industrial relations and specifically liaising and engaging with representative bodies.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend stage 2.
Stage 2
Assessment for this role is due to take place on Friday 27 February 2026 at the LFB Headquarters in Central London. Please be advised that if you are unable to make the scheduled assessment date, we may not be able to make alternative arrangements.
Benefits of working for the London Fire Brigade
- Additional leave between Christmas Day and New Year
- Family (including maternity) leave and emergency support leave
- Hybrid working is available, subject to business need
- Free access to the Brigade gym
- Use of the Brigade’s Medical Adviser/physios/fitness advisers
- Free counselling
- Season ticket loan
- Join social networks including our Equality Support Groups
- Cycle to work scheme
- Staff discount scheme
Head of HR Operations and Systems in London employer: London Fire Brigade
Contact Detail:
London Fire Brigade Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR Operations and Systems in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research the London Fire Brigade's values, mission, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s a great way to get insider info and make a good impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the role of Head of HR Operations and Systems. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your achievements in HRIS and digital improvements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the London Fire Brigade and contributing to making London a safer city.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR Operations and Systems in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Head of HR Operations and Systems. Highlight your experience with HRIS, data improvements, and any innovative projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to provide specific examples of your experience in HR operations, especially around pay, reward, and industrial relations. Show us why you're the perfect fit for our team at LFB.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application, keep your language clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Fire Brigade
✨Know Your HRIS Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in HR Information Systems, especially any you've implemented or improved. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven digital improvements and automation in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Industrial Relations Savvy
Prepare to talk about your experience with industrial relations. Highlight instances where you've successfully engaged with representative bodies and how you navigated complex situations to achieve positive outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of HR Operations, you'll need to show that you can lead and inspire a team. Think of examples where you've motivated others, driven change, or improved processes, and be ready to share these stories.
✨Align with LFB's Values
Familiarise yourself with the London Fire Brigade’s mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding diversity and inclusion, as this is crucial for their recruitment process.