HR Operations Manager

Think FE; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A relevant college in the East Midlands seeks an experienced Interim HR Operations Manager to lead their operational HR team. This role requires a strong background in employee relations and HR operations, preferably within education or the public sector. Responsibilities include overseeing HR systems, managing a team, and strategic handling of HR issues. The position is full-time with hybrid working options and offers £200-£250 per day. A CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent experience is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in employee relations and people management.
• Strong background in HR operations within education or public sector settings.
• Ability to lead strategically while remaining hands-on.

Responsibilities

• Operational leadership and oversight of HR systems and processes.
• Direct line management and mentoring of HR team members.
• Caseload management, particularly around Employee Relations.
• Strategic and compliant handling of ill-health retirements.
• Stakeholder engagement across the college community.

Skills

Employee relations

Team management

HR operations

Stakeholder engagement

Education

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience

Job description

Interim HR Operations Manager – Further Education – East Midlands

Are you an experienced HR professional ready to take on a strategic leadership role within a dynamic and supportive further education environment? We’re working with a well‑regarded college in the East Midlands to recruit an Interim HR Operations Manager to lead their operational HR team during a period of transition.

Pay: £200.00‑£250.00 per day - Permanent applications also welcome.

This is an exciting opportunity for a CIPD Level 5‑qualified (or equivalent experience) individual who thrives in a fast‑paced setting and has a strong background in employee relations and team management—particularly within education or the public sector.

The Role

As Interim HR Operations Manager, you’ll lead the HR Operations function, providing strategic oversight of core HR processes, compliance, and systems. You'll also manage a team of HR Assistants and an Associate HR Business Partner, while offering expert advice on complex and high‑risk cases.

Location: Derbyshire

Working Arrangement: Full‑time, hybrid working available

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Length: To cover permanent recruitment (estimated 3+ months)

Key Responsibilities

• Operational leadership and oversight of HR systems and processes
• Direct line management and mentoring of HR team members
• Caseload management, particularly around Employee Relations
• Strategic and compliant handling of ill‑health retirements
• Stakeholder engagement across the college community

What You’ll Need

• CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience
• Strong background in HR operations within education or public sector settings
• Proven expertise in employee relations and people management
• Ability to lead strategically while remaining hands‑on

Next Steps

Once you've applied, one of our friendly further education consultants will give you a call to discuss this opportunity. The college will move quickly for the right applicant, and they have a simple and concise interview process.

Think FE Ltd. is acting as an employment business for this position. Working for/with Think FE Ltd. is subject to agreement to our Terms and Conditions.

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