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Employer:Aston University
Position:Head of HR Operations
Salary:£47,389 – £56,535 a year
Job Types: Full-time
Work location:Birmingham
FULL JOB DESCRIPTION
Make a Real Impact at a Leading University
Aston University is committed to creating an exceptional employee experience and delivering on our People Strategy as part of the Aston 2030 vision. We are now seeking an innovative, strategic and people‑centred Head of HR Operations to lead and continuously evolve our HR operations.
This is a high‑impact leadership role, responsible for ensuring efficient and compliant HR operations across recruitment and talent acquisition, immigration and the full employee lifecycle. You will shape how our HR function supports the organisation today — and transform how it operates for the future.
About the Role
As the Head of HR Operations, you will:
● Lead and modernise HR operations, ensuring alignment with legislation, best practice and organisational governance.
● Oversee recruitment and talent acquisition, immigration and compliance and HR operational activity aligned to the employee lifecycle.
● Drive continuous improvement, automation and service optimisation across systems and processes.
● Partner with leadership teams across HR/OD/EDI to deliver strategic people initiatives.
● Lead and develop three direct reports and their teams, fostering a high‑performance, inclusive and customer‑focused culture.
● Provide timely, data‑driven insights through KPI dashboards and reporting.
● Support Aston’s commitment to being a Great Place to Work through innovation, engagement and operational excellence.
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
● CIPD Level 7 qualified and Chartered Member (or equivalent experience).
● Strong experience leading HR operational teams within a large or complex environment.
● Experience of operationalising strategy and achieving linked targets and KPIs.
● Track record of delivering service improvements, process and systems optimisation and people development.
● Excellent leadership, communication, project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
● Experience of end-to-end recruitment processes up to Executive level, bulk and specialist roles.
● Experience or good understanding of UKVI procedures, Right to Work and DBS processes.
● Up‑to‑date knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
Desirable:
● Coaching or leadership qualifications.
● Recruitment specific qualifications.
● Experience with job evaluation (e.g., HERA) or reward and benefits.
● Experience in coaching senior leaders and key stakeholders.
Why Join Us?
At Aston University, you’ll be part of a forward‑thinking HR/OD community driving meaningful organisational change. We’re committed to equality, diversity, inclusion and creating a culture where colleagues thrive as their authentic selves.
We also offer a comprehensive benefits package. Visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/staff-public/hr
Applications must include a completed application form and CV. CVs sent directly to the HR team or hiring manager will not be accepted.
For vacancy enquiries:
Mira Gola, Deputy Chief People Officer
Email: m.gola1@aston.ac.uk
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role.
Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk
Work Location: in person
APPLICATION PROCESS
If you’re interested in this role, check out more information on the OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE and apply now!!