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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and improve recruitment processes for the TOpS project while supporting various teams.
- Company: Join Pearson, a leading innovative education company focused on digital transformation and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25-30 days of annual leave, a generous pension plan, and private healthcare options.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values diversity and fosters employee growth in a high-impact role.
- Qualifications: Operational experience in high-pressure environments and project management skills are essential.
- Other info: This is an onsite role at our Hellaby offices in South Yorkshire.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Team & Role
Pearson were awarded the TOpS contract in April 2024, with the first test cycle to be completed in 2025/2026 window. The TOpS Associate Recruitment Operations Manager will be responsible for the overall management, development and continuous improvement of processes related to the resourcing and recruitment of Associates for the TOpS project. This will also include supporting with all set-up deliverables required throughout the set-up of the TOpS project, meeting tight deadlines and ensuring that all criteria is met.
This is an onsite role in our Hellaby offices in South Yorkshire.
There will be a requirement through quiet periods to also support the Recruitment team across all subject areas across Pearson qualifications and for all temporary personnel in Hellaby, which will also incorporate the following accountabilities;
Key Accountabilities
Lead the Recruitment team and strategies, directing workload and ensuring that overall team goals are being met
Ensuring costs, timescales and resources are managed effectively throughout the TOpS project
Effectively manage issues and risks by taking responsibility and appropriate action where these deviate from agreed tolerance, and put control measure in place to minimise risk to delivery
Provide project management expertise to support the successful implementation and delivery of TOpS project
Play an active role in contributing to improvements of business activities in supporting the delivery of process innovations arising through corporate plans or regulatory changes
Driving culture and process change as needed to ensure sustainable improvements
Provide visibility of progress and detailed MI against key milestones, deliverables, documented SLAs and KPIs
Work with internal stakeholders to prepare detailed schedules and ensure dependencies between functions are effectively planned and managed
Direct line management responsibility for Team Leaders across Recruitment and Relations & Development teams, including all aspects of performance management where required
Facilitate succession planning across both teams, coaching team members and actively supporting staff development where required
Work closely with key stakeholders to understand business needs for recruitment and to develop and implement a recruitment strategy for the team
Attract large volumes of suitably qualified candidates, building a pipeline of Associates to complete the TOpS project
Identify and meet retention targets and expectations
Oversee the management of a high volume processing operation
Protect the business from litigation by ensuring recruitment processes conform to all data protection and employment laws whilst meeting all deliverables provided by STA
Key Challenges
Ensure compliance with business calendars and relevant SLAs in all activities.
Identify and implement enhancements to the Associate recruitment experience.
Provide timely and accurate reporting on performance and financial metrics.
Validate processes and systems, implementing corrective actions as needed.
Execute operational tasks with a strategic focus on process improvement.
Plan and adapt activities to respond effectively to changing circumstances.
Manage complex conduct and performance issues with sensitivity.
Prioritize workload to meet business needs under tight deadlines.
Resolve operational problems efficiently, focusing on quality solutions.
About You
Competencies Required:
communicator and team builder with effective management skills.
Influential at all levels with a focus on quality and attention to detail.
Capable of delivering results under pressure.
Knowledgeable about the educational landscape and relevant regulations.
Skilled in analyzing complex information.
Engages with and communicates organizational values.
Diplomatic conflict management abilities.
Innovative problem solver.
Adaptable to changing environments and tasks.
Flexible work hours required.
Education, Qualifications & Experience
Degree, relevant vocational qualifications or extensive experience
Experience of delivering key operational activities in a highly pressurised environment
Experience managing a team or project and all aspects of performance management
Experience of taking a strategic view and implementing significant business improvement processes
Leading complex activities either as a manager or in cross-departmental teams
Experience related to implementation of procedures and contingencies
Project management
Technical Knowledge
Awareness of Pearson\’s business and general education issues (Essential)
IT Literacy (Essential)
Intermediate MS Word and MS Excel (Essential)
Use of databases (Essential)
Familiarity with Google Documents (Desirable)
Your rewards & benefits
We know you’ll do great work, so we give a lot back with some of the best benefits in the business. We know that one size doesn’t fit all, so our workplace programs meet the different needs of our diverse teams, and their families too. There is a range of options, see some of them shared here:
A competitive salary
25 Days annual leave, this increases by 1 day each year up to 30 days with the option to buy and sell up to 5 days per year on top of this.
A fantastic pension plan, where Pearson double what you contribute.
Pearson’s other benefits also include private dental care, private medical insurance, digital GP service, eye tests, cycle to work scheme, volunteering days and much more.
What to expect from Pearson
Did you know Pearson is one of the 10 most innovative education companies of 2022?
At Pearson, we add life to a lifetime of learning so everyone can realize the life they imagine. We do this by creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are on a journey to be 100 percent digital to meet the changing needs of the global population by developing a new strategy with ambitious targets. To deliver on our strategic vision, we have five business divisions that are the foundation for the long-term growth of the company: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills and Higher Education. Alongside these, we have our corporate divisions: Digital & Technology, Finance, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications, Human Resources, Legal, Strategy and Direct to Consumer. Learn more at
We value the power of an inclusive culture and also a strong sense of belonging. We promote a culture where differences are embraced, opportunities are accessible, consideration and respect are the norm and all individuals are supported in reaching their full potential. Through our talent, we believe that diversity, equity and inclusion make us a more innovative and vibrant place to work. People are at the center, and we are committed to building a workplace where talent can learn, grow and thrive.
Associate Recruitment Operations Manager (TOpS Project) employer: Pearson
Contact Detail:
Pearson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Recruitment Operations Manager (TOpS Project)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Pearson's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to digital transformation and inclusive culture will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how your personal values resonate with theirs.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Pearson, especially those in recruitment or project management roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the Associate Recruitment Operations Manager position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience in managing recruitment processes and improving operational efficiencies. Highlighting your past successes will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on education regulations and trends within the industry. Being knowledgeable about these topics will not only impress during interviews but also show your commitment to the role and the organisation's goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Recruitment Operations Manager (TOpS Project)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Associate Recruitment Operations Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your operational experience in high-pressure environments and any project management skills you possess. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've successfully managed teams and improved processes.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your proficiency in MS Word and Excel, as well as any experience with database use. If you have familiarity with Google Documents, include that too, as it may set you apart from other candidates.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only summarises your CV but also conveys your passion for education and your understanding of Pearson's mission. Discuss how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the TOpS project.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pearson
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Associate Recruitment Operations Manager. Familiarise yourself with the TOpS project and Pearson's recruitment processes, as this will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Management Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your team management and project management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams, managed timelines, and handled challenges in high-pressure environments.
✨Demonstrate Data Analysis Proficiency
Since the role requires analysing complex data, be prepared to discuss your experience with data analysis tools and techniques. You might want to bring examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes in previous roles.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the TOpS project and Pearson's future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values, especially regarding diversity and inclusion.
