Head of Human Resources in Birkenhead

My client is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of People & Payroll to lead the delivery of a high-quality, responsive people and payroll service within a values-driven organisation. Reporting into the HR Director, this pivotal leadership role will be responsible for shaping and delivering people strategies that align with organisational objectives and support continued growth and positive social impact. The successful candidate will play a key role in fostering an inclusive, high-performing culture and creating an exceptional employee experience across the organisation.

The role requires a proactive and collaborative leader who can drive organisational success through effective people practices, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

• Provide effective leadership and oversight of a large People and Payroll function, ensuring a professional, efficient, and customer-focused service.
• Ensure robust systems, controls, and processes are in place for payroll administration and wider people operations.
• Maintain legally compliant policies, procedures, and people management practices.
• Lead on employee relations matters, including disciplinary and grievance processes, minimising organisational risk.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, external partners, and recognised trade unions.
• Manage and monitor departmental budgets, ensuring effective financial control and value for money.
• Develop and analyse people metrics and insights to inform strategic decision-making and service improvement.
• Contribute to organisational growth and transformation through strategic workforce planning and people initiatives.
• Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture that supports employee engagement, wellbeing, and belonging.
• Champion Equality, Diversity & Inclusion initiatives and ensure inclusive practices are embedded across the organisation.
• Develop and enhance the organisation’s Employee Value Proposition.

• Significant leadership experience within HR and Payroll functions.
• You must be a Chartered member of CIPD or similar.
• Strong strategic and operational HR expertise.
• A proven track record of leading organisational change and workforce initiatives.
• Excellent knowledge of employment law, payroll governance, and people best practice.
• A passion for creating positive workplace cultures and employee experiences.
• Skilled and experienced facilitator, including facilitating in scenarios of challenging group/individual dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills.

If you are interested in this Head of HR and Payroll opportunity and you feel your experience matches the criteria, please apply now for immediate consideration or for more information please contact Mark Croston.

Medlock Partners are a professional services recruitment specialist operating across the North West of England. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances, including minorities and those with disabilities.