Human Resources Operations Manager in Woking

HR Operations Manager – (24P-27)

The Pirbright Institute

Salary: £47,000 - £48,500 per annum

Permanent

Onsite: Woking, GU24

Application Closing Date: 01/07/2024

About The Pirbright Institute

The Pirbright Institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks.

We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors.

Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats.

Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience.

We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live.

Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one Institute’ approach.

Organisation position and purpose

This key HR Operations Manager position is very hands-on, liaising with cross-departmental teams within Pirbright.

The role will lead the management of HR Operations and the delivery of strategic objectives.

The successful candidate will possess a strong background in HR with a proven track record of successfully managing HR Operations, preferably within a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

This role holder will oversee the development and integration of a new HR integrated system (HRIS) and take ownership of the system and HR processes for the longer term.

The candidate is expected to instigate and drive a quality mindset through all HR processes and systems.

Strategic oversight will be crucial in developing processes that enhance operational efficiency across the HR spectrum and closely partner with colleagues at all levels to capitalise on continuous improvement opportunities, particularly those which seek to enhance colleague experience and improve data quality.

As such exceptional leadership skills are a must, with the credibility and confidence to collaborate with others across both the HR function and the wider Institute.

The role requires a capable communicator who can spot opportunities to create consistency and set clear expectations of delivery.

This is an exciting time to join our team and provides an opportunity for someone who is looking to make a real difference as to how we can best support our stakeholders and to deliver excellent service though continuous improvement.

Main duties and responsibilities:

Communication Systems

• Spearhead and assist in the integration process of Pirbright’s new, bespoke internal HRIS.
• Promote ways to streamline and improve communication processes within the institutions HR platform.
• Take ownership of the HR management system, ensuring efficient document and information management.
• Responsible for driving a sense of quality and continuous improvement through processes and systems.
• Accountable for HR service delivery ensuring all activity supports the overall HR strategic directions.
• Optimize and align processes utilising data to enhance employee experience.
• Accountable as first point of contact for Institute leaders and managers on HRIS data queries. Escalation points for general enquiries and provide timely resolutions.

Centre of Excellence

• Identify and recommend improvements to standard operating procedures including new staff inductions and on-boarding.
• Take ownership of and manage employees annual pay reviews
• Oversee Pirbright’s internal reward schemes.
• Accountable for the delivery of a ‘right first time’ administration / advice service incorporating all aspects of the employee lifecycle including contract changes, employee changes, benefits portal and reporting and analysis, etc.
• Line Management responsibility for HR Officer.
• Responsible for the delivery of HR reports/ monthly dashboard and ensuring SLAs are met.
• Head up Pirbright’s quality administration and coordination of occupational health activities including health surveillance and scheduling of clinic days.

This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role.

The jobholder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by his/her line manager.

The job description and personal specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.

All employees shall actively participate in the Institute-wide quality assurance system in conjunction with the Institute’s Quality Manager.

Employees are also expected to safeguard their own health and safety and security by following policies and all employeesare responsible for the Health and Safety and security of staff under their management.

No candidate will meet every single desired qualification.

If your experience looks a little different from what we have identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we would love to learn more.

Essential/Desirable requirements

Essential:

• Demonstrable experience of effective HR process and systems management.
• Experience of collaborative working
• Sound knowledge and experience of Quality Management.
• Track record in building credibility with stakeholders and delivery.
• Excellent planning, organising and coordination of multiple and complex activities/tasks.
• Strong IT and system skills, with experience of maximising the benefits of HR technology,

Desirable:

• Demonstrable experience of HRIS integration.
• Experience of Access SelectHR.
• HR experience within research or education environment.
• Background working in a highly regulated environment.
• Sound HR knowledge of employment law and best practice.

Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.

What we offer

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings).
• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.5 public and privilege days.
• Buy and sell annual leave.
• Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave.
• Pirbright gym with subsidised membership.
• Pirbright social club.
• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site).
• Cycle to work.
• Subsidised employee restaurant.
• Childcare allowance.
• Free onsite parking.
• Electric car charging facilities.

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on for an update.