At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, drive improvements, and manage complex queries across Europe.
- Company: Vanguard, a leading investment firm with a focus on client success.
- Benefits: Hybrid work setup, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic environment with a commitment to inclusivity and support.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in HR while working with a global team.
- Qualifications: 6+ years in HR leadership, strong analytical skills, and experience in financial services.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Location: Manchester
Role Type: Permanent
Work Setup: Hybrid - 3 days in the office (Tuesday to Thursday)
Who We Are
Vanguard is one of the world's leading investment firms, dedicated to helping clients achieve lasting financial success. Established in 1975, its unique ownership structure ensures all efforts are focused on client outcomes. Known for integrity, innovation, and low-cost investing, Vanguard fosters an inclusive and collaborative culture that empowers employees to make a meaningful impact globally.
What You'll Do
- Lead HR Operations across Europe, ensuring efficient, high-quality and compliant service delivery aligned with business priorities, while managing complex operational queries and escalations.
- Develop strong partnerships with HR, Payroll, Global Mobility, Risk & Compliance and other key stakeholders to deliver seamless, well-governed HR services and a consistent employee experience.
- Drive continuous improvement by simplifying, standardising and enhancing HR processes, governance and service delivery through best practice, AI, automation and self-service solutions.
- Use HR data, metrics and insights to monitor performance, identify trends, manage operational capacity and support informed decision-making.
- Provide first-line HR policy and advisory support, working closely with Employee Relations to resolve queries, improve processes and ensure compliance across European jurisdictions and financial services regulations.
- Lead, coach and develop a high-performing HR Operations team, setting clear performance expectations while fostering capability, engagement and continuous learning.
- Contribute to regional and global HR projects, providing operational expertise and supporting cross-regional HR Operations where required to ensure consistent service delivery.
What You Bring
- Minimum of six years' experience operating at HR Business Partner, HR Operations Manager or equivalent leadership level, within financial services or a large global organisation.
- Strong expertise in HR operations, service delivery, process improvement, service model design, operational governance and risk management.
- Experience working across global organisations, with exposure to HR operations and employment practices across the UK, Europe and the US.
- Demonstrated leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills.
- Strong analytical and systems skills, with experience using HR data, metrics and HRIS platforms (ideally Workday and ServiceNow) to drive performance, continuous improvement and informed decision-making.
What's Next
If you are ready to take the next step, apply now! Successful applicants will be contacted directly by a recruiter to discuss the role more.
We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment experience. If you require support or adjustments to the recruitment process, our Adjustment Concierge Service is here to help.
HR Operations Manager in Manchester employer: Robert Walters
Join a leading organisation in the UK property and infrastructure sector as a Legal Director - Construction and Development, where you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration and innovation. With a hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth, this role offers a unique chance to influence major projects while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. Located in Cheshire, you will benefit from a vibrant community and access to a wealth of resources in the construction and development field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Operations Manager in Manchester
✨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 Robert Walters!
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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.
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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 Robert Walters.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Operations Manager in Manchester
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 Robert Walters. 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 Robert Walters 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 Robert Walters. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Robert Walters'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 Robert Walters
✨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 Robert Walters.
✨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 Robert Walters 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 Robert Walters and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
