HR Systems and Data Lead

HR Systems Leadership, Development and Improvement

Provide professional leadership and specialist expertise for the HR Information System (HRIS) and associated people systems, ensuring they are secure, effective, user-focused and aligned with organisational and operational requirements. Act as the lead subject matter expert for HR systems, driving the development, optimisation and adoption of digital solutions that support the delivery of high-quality people services. Lead the planning and delivery of system upgrades, enhancements, integrations and new functionality, overseeing testing, implementation, communications, training and user adoption.

Champion the effective use of HR technology, identifying opportunities to maximise system capability, improve user experience and enhance organisational value. Lead the implementation and integration of new systems and technologies, ensuring robust data flows, system compatibility and a seamless user experience across platforms. Build strong relationships with system providers, technical teams and key stakeholders to resolve issues, influence system development and ensure solutions meet organisational needs.

Provide specialist guidance and support to the HR Systems Coordinator, promoting best practice and the effective administration of HR systems. Develop a strong understanding of HR operations, workforce processes and organisational priorities to ensure system developments support practical service delivery and business requirements.

Lead the review and continuous improvement of HR processes, identifying opportunities to streamline workflows, increase automation and improve the employee and manager experience. Design and implement digital solutions that enhance efficiency, consistency, compliance and service delivery across the employee lifecycle. Challenge existing practices and champion innovative, user-centred approaches that simplify processes and support continuous improvement. Ensure systems and processes enable a just, compassionate and evidence-based approach to people management, supporting fair, consistent and informed decision‑making across the organisation.

Lead the management, governance and quality of workforce data, ensuring information is accurate, accessible and reliable. Develop and deliver workforce reports, dashboards, analysis and insight that support operational decision-making, workforce planning, the delivery of the People Strategy and the achievement of wider organisational goals. Support HR projects and initiatives, including the annual staff survey, through the preparation and analysis of workforce data, reports and insights.

Analyse and interpret workforce data to identify trends, risks and opportunities, presenting insights and recommendations to managers, senior leaders and HR colleagues. Continuously improve reporting capability and promote the effective use of workforce data to support decision-making and service improvement.

Ensure HR systems and data processes comply with GDPR, data protection, information governance and audit requirements. Act as the designated data protection champion for the HR department providing a local point of contact for data protection issues and advice, sharing information and best practice, and completing Data protection impact assessments. Develop and maintain system documentation, user guidance and training materials. Provide expert advice, training and support to HR colleagues, managers and system users, promoting effective and consistent use of HR systems.

Build effective relationships with stakeholders across the organisation to ensure systems, data and digital solutions support operational and organisational objectives.