Human Resources Operations Manager

About this Role

UNISON’s HR team are looking for an HR Operations Manager to lead a key administration team and project that will create an HR Shared Service function. This isn’t just about systems, it’s about improving internal and external customer experiences, and streamlining processes for long-term impact.

About this job
You’ll lead a full redesign of our in-house administration practices and workflows, including implementing a Shared Service technology solution to deliver an improved customer experience and internal processes. Managing a small team of administrators and collaborating with other key HR stakeholders, sound leadership and communication skills will be key to success.

Your focus will include:

• End to end review of all HR administrative processes across all stages of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment and onboarding.
• Implementation of an HR help desk technology solution / HR service management system.
• Streamlining administration to support better, faster and more focused SLA’s.
• Creating measurable data sets and reports to allow for practical solutions to be developed in line with organisational needs and trends.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to co-create lasting change.
• Developing clear, practical tools to assist with training others and creating self-service solutions.
  
  

This is both an operational and strategic role with hands-on delivery and real, evidencable impact.

About you

We’re looking for someone with strong HR process expertise, gained from a Shared Service environment. A collaborative mindset and experience driving change, you should be confident working with data, influencing stakeholders, and navigating complexity with a practical, solution-focused approach.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience leading and managing in an HR Shared Service function.
• A track record of improving processes and delivering change.
• Excellent stakeholder skills, especially with senior leaders, managers and union reps.
• The ability to use data to inform strategy.
• Knowledge of HR help desk technology solutions / HR service management systems.
• A values-led, adaptable and proactive working style.
• Patience and adaptability to work within traditional or evolving structures, and an understanding that change often involves many voices and perspectives.
• Experience working with trade union representatives, ideally in a not-for-profit or similar environments (desirable).
  
  

A full job description and person specification can be found in the Documents section below.

Why join us?

At UNISON, your work will make a lasting impact. You’ll lead the creation of a high-performing HR Shared Service team that supports our people with clarity, consistency, and care. You’ll help shape a more inclusive and responsive HR service, making day-to-day processes smoother for staff and managers alike.

Further information

How to apply
To apply for this opportunity please download and complete the General application form (under “Documents”). See job description and person specification (under “Documents”)

Please note that only the General application form will be accepted.

Please email your application form along with the recruitment and disability monitoring forms to [email protected], quoting ref: ORD/206T.

Completed application forms must be received by no later than 5pm August 28 2025.

Interviews will be held in person at UNISON Centre London. Interview date to be confirmed.