Head of Operations

We are exclusively partnering with one of our global, highly regarded clients to identify a visionary Senior HR executive with profound expertise in payroll and personnel administration to join their UK head office as Head of Reward Operations UK
.

As a key leader in the people function you will operate across both strategic and operational axes, so this high-profile role offers a substantial remit, international collaboration, and the significant independence required to drive major transformation initiatives.

The successful candidate will position the function as a true business partner utilising data, technology, and emerging AI to optimise costs, mitigate risks, and enhance the overall employee experience whilst ensuring the seamless, compliant delivery of full‑scope Payroll, Time, and Personal Administration services.

• Set a meaningful vision and objectives for the UK team, ensuring close alignment with overarching global business strategies.
• Ensure all Reward Operations services are delivered on time, to quality, and within cost parameters, while maintaining absolute compliance with UK legislation and GDPR.
• Lead the assessment, feasibility, and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into operations to maximise efficiency while robustly managing associated risks.
• Foster international harmonisation and standardisation, ensuring the UK function contributes effectively to global projects and works seamlessly with Global Business Services.
• Resource, develop, and inspire your team. Promote well‑being and work‑life balance as the cultural norm, actively improving engagement levels and developing individual competencies.
• Cultivate an environment of continuous improvement and innovation, actively detecting and eliminating non‑added‑value activities.

• Proven experience in a senior HR leadership role with exceptional people management skills and a track record of inspiring large teams.
• Strong, up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll legislation, tax regulations, and compliance.
• Robust familiarity with payroll software, HRIS, and HCM systems (experience with SAP and Workday is highly advantageous).
• Demonstrated experience leading significant operational projects underpinned by recognised change management methodologies.
• A Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Relevant professional payroll certifications would be a distinct advantage.

Randstad Financial & Professional encourage applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds. Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Randstad Financial & Professional acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003