HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead, EMEA

HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead, EMEA

Full-Time 70000 - 90000 € / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Vertiv

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead HR transformation and operational excellence initiatives across EMEA.
  • Company: Join a dynamic global company focused on innovation and efficiency.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Work in a collaborative environment with excellent career advancement opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by driving change and improving HR processes.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in HR or program management; strong communication and leadership skills.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 € per year.

The HR Programs & Operational Excellence lead for EMEA will play a pivotal role in driving transformation, standardization, and operational excellence across the region. This position is responsible for leading key HR programs to ensure consistent delivery, capability building, and process rigor. This role will act as the central orchestrator for major regional HR initiatives, providing leadership and governance across projects that enable efficiency, compliance, and scalability. The incumbent will also lead the EMEA HR Management Operating System (MOS), ensuring robust governance of HR KPIs, reporting, and metrics. The role will report to Vice President HR EMEA and will be a member of the EMEA Leadership teams. The role can be based in any of the Vertiv Hub or manufacturing locations across EMEA.

Key Responsibilities

  • Program Leadership and Execution: Lead regional HR programs ensuring alignment with business priorities and cost targets in close partnership with the EMEA HRLT. Lead HR transformation initiatives for EMEA, ensuring process standardization, compliance, and effective communication across all EMEA entities. Support regional M&A activities in partnership with global BD team.
  • Process Excellence and Standardization: Drive VOS (Vertiv Operating System) adoption and HR process standardization across EMEA to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Identify opportunities for policy or process standardization, and drive them to a regional or global standard working closely with relevant stakeholders.
  • HR Operating Rhythm: Own the EMEA HR Management Operating System (MOS), ensuring identification and regular monitoring of KPIs, census data, and performance metrics. Collaborate closely with members of the EMEA HRLT to drive MOS. Partner with HR analytics and finance teams to ensure accurate and timely HR reporting for leadership reviews. Drive Problem Solving Reviews (PSR) for "Red" KPIs in strong partnership with relevant KPI owners. Support periodic operating review (QBR, MOR, etc.) preparation and facilitate alignment across EMEA HR teams.
  • HRBP Leadership and Capability Development: Drive continuous improvement and standardization in HRBP operating practices, reinforcing a strong culture of accountability and data-driven decision making. Provide coaching and guidance to HRBPs on process execution, program delivery, and change management.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field; Master's preferred.
  • 10+ years of progressive experience, including experience in program management or HR transformation roles.
  • Proven experience in global or matrixed organizations with complex structures.
  • Understanding of EMEA regulatory frameworks, and change management practices.
  • Demonstrated ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery under tight timelines.
  • Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills across multiple levels.
  • Strong business acumen with ability to influence senior executives and drive measurable outcomes.
  • Fluent in English; additional European languages a plus.

Success Profile

  • Operational Integrator: Connects strategy and execution, ensuring seamless delivery of complex programs.
  • Process Champion: Promotes standardization, governance, and continuous improvement.
  • Change Leader: Drives transformation with discipline, empathy, and precision.
  • Trusted Advisor: Provides credible, data-driven insights that enhance decision-making and organizational efficiency.

HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead, EMEA employer: Vertiv

At Vertiv, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. As the HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead for EMEA, you will have the opportunity to drive meaningful change across our diverse locations, including Bedford and Southampton, while benefiting from a supportive environment that prioritises employee growth and development. With a focus on operational excellence and a commitment to standardisation, we empower our team members to excel in their roles and contribute to impactful regional initiatives.

Vertiv

Contact Detail:

Vertiv Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead, EMEA

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the company you're eyeing, especially in HR roles. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research the company's HR programs and operational excellence initiatives. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission.

Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. Focus on articulating how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around process standardization and HR transformation.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you note expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It’s a simple way to stand out and show you’re keen on being part of their team.

We think you need these skills to ace HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead, EMEA

Program Management
HR Transformation
Process Standardization
Governance
KPI Monitoring
Stakeholder Management
Change Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in HR transformation and program management, as these are crucial for the role.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the HR Programs & Operational Excellence Lead position. Share specific examples of how you've driven transformation and standardisation in previous roles.

Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your stakeholder management and communication skills. We want to see how you’ve influenced senior executives and driven measurable outcomes in your past experiences.

Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!

How to prepare for a job interview at Vertiv

Know Your HR Program Inside Out

Make sure you thoroughly understand the key HR programs mentioned in the job description, like fixed cost optimisation and HR transformation. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led similar initiatives in the past and how you can apply that experience to drive transformation and standardisation across EMEA.

Showcase Your Process Excellence Skills

Prepare examples of how you've driven process standardisation and operational excellence in previous roles. Highlight your experience with frameworks like VOS and how you've identified opportunities for improvement. This will demonstrate your capability to enhance efficiency and accountability within the organisation.

Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Prowess

Since this role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, be ready to share specific instances where you've effectively managed relationships and influenced decision-making at different levels. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.

Prepare for Change Management Questions

Given the emphasis on change management in the role, think about times when you've successfully navigated organisational change. Be prepared to discuss your approach to coaching and guiding teams through transitions, as well as how you ensure compliance and effective communication during these processes.