People Operations Lead

Role Overview

Sanderson is collaborating with a global client operating across various countries to ensure exceptional outcomes through strong operational capabilities and ongoing improvements. The People Operations Lead will manage HR operations throughout Ireland, the UK, and Europe, overseeing a multi-location team and fostering operational excellence, compliance, and uniform employee experience. This leadership role requires a combination of team management, process enhancement, and data-informed decision making throughout the employee lifecycle.

Work Arrangement

This position offers a hybrid working model with three days in the Dublin office and two days remote per week, with frequent travel to the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and cultivate a high-performing People Operations team across Ireland and the UK.
• Collaborate with HR Business Partners and stakeholders to ensure HR operations align with strategic goals.
• Improve delivery by promoting cross-training, strategic resource allocation, and effective workload management.
• Guarantee compliance with employment legislation, GDPR, and relevant EU policies across multiple countries.
• Maintain accurate and audit-compliant HR data and payroll processes.
• Enhance reporting capabilities and the governance of HR data.
• Standardize and simplify HR operational processes.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and implement data-based solutions.
• Encourage the use and improvement of digital HR systems and tools.
• Manage employee lifecycle activities such as onboarding, offboarding, and compensation administration.
• Support employee relations for a geographically dispersed workforce.
• Foster a culture emphasizing accountability, responsiveness, and excellent service standards.

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of five years leading HR operations across multi-site and multi-jurisdictional environments.
• Demonstrated success in HR service delivery, process optimization, and accurate data management.
• Proficiency with HR systems, reporting processes, payroll data, and compliance frameworks.
• Ability to influence key stakeholders and drive operational objectives.
• Preferred background in construction, engineering, or professional services sectors.
• Experience with continuous improvement methods, process mapping, or RACI frameworks is beneficial.
• Exposure to HRIS or payroll transformation initiatives is advantageous.
• Certifications such as Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement credentials are desirable.
• Training in employment law, GDPR, or HR analytics is a plus.
• Academic qualifications include a degree in HR, business, or related disciplines, along with CIPD Level 7 or equivalent postgraduate qualification.