At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR systems operations and support transformation projects at Loughborough University.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Loughborough University, known for its collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, competitive pay, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of an ambitious transformation programme with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on HR systems while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR systems and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR systems professional to join our HR Data and Systems team as HR Systems and Data Operational Lead. This is an excellent time to join the University. We are embarking on a significant HR Systems Transformation programme alongside finalising a major Finance system re-implementation. As part of this journey, we are looking for a specialist practitioner who can help maintain our business-as-usual HR systems operations. This is a hands-on specialist role for someone who thrives on problem-solving, operational leadership and team management.
You will lead the day-to-day delivery of HR Data and Systems services, ensuring business-as-usual activity remains effective and resilient whilst enabling senior members of the team to focus their capacity on delivering the HR Systems Transformation Programme.
About the Role
As our HR Systems and Data Operational Lead, you will provide operational leadership for the HR Data and Systems team whilst acting as the University's lead operational subject matter expert for iTrent and associated HR systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of business-as-usual services, maintaining system stability, and supporting the ongoing development of HR systems and processes. The role has been created to strengthen operational resilience during a significant period of systems change.
By managing team workloads, supporting service delivery and leading the resolution of operational issues, you will create capacity for senior Data and Systems colleagues to focus on the delivery of the HR Systems Transformation Programme. You will provide day-to-day leadership and management of a specialist HR Data and Systems team, acting as a point of escalation for complex system and data issues, co-ordinating workloads and priorities, and ensuring service standards are maintained during periods of high demand.
Working closely with colleagues across HR, Payroll, Recruitment, Finance, IT Services and external suppliers, you will help ensure that HR systems remain stable, effective and responsive to business needs throughout the transformation journey. The role offers significant autonomy and requires strong judgement, technical expertise and the ability to operate independently.
You will also play a key role in statutory and sector reporting activities, including supporting the delivery of the annual HESA Staff Return through data validation, coding, reporting and submission activities, helping to ensure the accuracy and integrity of workforce data.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to play a key role within an ambitious transformation programme while helping to maintain and improve the systems and data that support our people. You will join a collaborative and supportive team, working on projects that will have a lasting impact across the University.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are of vital importance to the University and the HR department. We have made strides in recent years, but recognise we have significant work to do to achieve our plans to become an anti-racist organisation and one at which EDI is embedded in all that we do. Together we are creating an environment in which diverse individuals can belong, develop and thrive. We will expect you to share that commitment too.
Our Benefits
- Time off - generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase scheme.
- Where you work - access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523-acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
- Financial wellbeing - competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunities.
- Support for you and those close to you - through our range of life event leave policies as well as access to an on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options.
- Health and wellbeing - discounted gym memberships and access to world-class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing support.
- Travel and sustainability - access to our electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commuting.
Discover more about the full range of rewards and benefits at Loughborough University.
HR Systems and Data Operational Lead, Loughborough employer: Loughborough University
Loughborough University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while making a meaningful impact on students' lives across the UK. Located in a dynamic academic environment, the university fosters a supportive atmosphere where your passion for higher education can truly thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Systems and Data Operational Lead, Loughborough
✨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 Loughborough University!
✨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 Loughborough University.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Systems and Data Operational Lead, Loughborough
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 Loughborough University. 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 Loughborough University 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 Loughborough University. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Loughborough University'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 Loughborough University
✨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 Loughborough University.
✨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 Loughborough University 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 Loughborough University and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
