HR Operations Lead

Apc Overnight; Cannock; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking HR firm is seeking an HR Operations Lead to manage core HR functions in Cannock. This position requires a proactive HR generalist with CIPD Level 5 who can handle complex employee matters and provide high-quality support to managers. The successful candidate will oversee recruitment, employee lifecycle, and drive a high-performance culture. This primarily on-site role offers a chance to contribute to exciting HR initiatives and develop professional skills in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience as an HR generalist handling complex employee matters.
• Proven ability to work autonomously and manage multiple demands.
• Experience in the logistics or fast-paced operational sector is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide a high-quality, responsive HR service to managers and employees.
• Act as a business partner to managers on generalist HR matters.
• Oversee the employee lifecycle including recruitment and onboarding.
• Lead employee relations matters providing expert advice to managers.
• Analyse HR metrics to inform decision-making.
• Drive and maintain a high-performance culture.
• Manage ACAS and Tribunal processes when required.

Skills

Strong communication and relationship-building skills

Ability to influence and support change

Proficiency in HR systems and data analytics

Strategic and analytical thinker

Sound understanding of UK employment law

Education

CIPD Level 5 qualification (or equivalent experience)

Job description

We are seeking a proactive and experienced HR Operations Lead to join our HR team. This pivotal role will manage and deliver core HR functions on-site in Cannock, as well as remote support with occasional travel to our owned depot (currently this being 1 in Edinburgh). The role will require a partnering approach to both operational and head office functions.

The HR Operations Lead is a true generalist position, taking full ownership of day‑to‑day HR operations, leading on people‑related matters, and supporting key HR projects and initiatives that align with wider business strategies. The successful candidate will be confident managing their own workload, prioritising effectively, and driving outcomes in a fast‑paced and evolving environment.

This role holder will need to have the ability to influence, work collaboratively, provide coaching and guidance to managers and stakeholders at all levels. They will be comfortable working autonomously with minimal supervision, demonstrating accountability, sound judgement, and the ability to proactively identify and deliver solutions.

This is an excellent opportunity to join The APC, a growing and forward‑thinking business offering the chance to contribute to exciting HR initiatives and further develop your professional skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide a high-quality, responsive HR service to managers and employees.
• Act as a business partner to managers and stakeholders, offering guidance on all generalist HR matters.
• Oversee the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training, and succession planning.
• Lead and support on all employee relations matters (grievance, disciplinary, capability, attendance), providing expert advice and coaching to managers.
• Manage resource planning, including agency relationships and workforce optimisation.
• Analyse HR metrics and data to inform decision-making and identify areas for improvement.
• Support and promote engagement initiatives and a positive workplace culture.
• Drive and maintain a high-performance culture where employees are empowered to succeed.
• Ensure the consistent delivery of the Group-wide HR strategy.
• Develop and implement local people plans aligned to wider business objectives.
• Influence and support the development of HR policies and procedures to meet business needs.
• Oversee and embed effective performance management practices.
• Manage ACAS and Tribunal processes when required.
• Lead on TUPE processes, ensuring legal compliance and effective communication.
• Take ownership of own workload, managing multiple priorities effectively, and ensuring timely delivery of tasks and projects with minimal supervision.

Skills, Experience and Qualifications:

• CIPD Level 5 qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Demonstrable experience as an HR generalist handling a wide range of complex employee matters.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence and support change.
• Proven ability to work autonomously, prioritise workload, and manage multiple demands effectively.
• Strategic and analytical thinker with a hands‑on approach to operational delivery.
• Sound understanding of UK employment law and best practice HR principles.
• Proficiency in HR systems and data analytics to support evidence‑based decision‑making.
• Experience in the logistics or fast‑paced operational sector (advantageous but not essential).

Location: Cannock

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, fully based on site (no remote working). Hours of work 14.00-22.00 / 18.00-02.00 (2 positions available)