HR Operations Manager

Wade Macdonald; Oxford; On-site; GBP 44,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a respected organization in the Education sector as an HR Operations Manager. This role offers a permanent position to lead HR operations within a dynamic school environment. You will oversee employee relations, recruitment, and compliance with statutory requirements, while supporting senior leadership. The ideal candidate will have a CIPD Level 5 qualification and a strong background in HR management, particularly within education. Enjoy a supportive atmosphere that values professional development and work-life balance, making a meaningful impact in the community.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Work-life balance emphasis

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• CIPD Level 5 qualified with HR management experience, preferably in education.
• Strong background in employee relations and performance management.

Responsibilities

• Manage HR operations including employee relations, recruitment, and payroll.
• Advise senior leadership on HR matters and ensure compliance with policies.

Skills

HR Management

Employee Relations

Performance Management

Recruitment and Selection

CIPD Level 5

Employment Law Knowledge

Communication Skills

Education

CIPD Level 5

Job description

HR Operations Manager – Oxford – £44,000 - £49,000

About the Client

A respected organisation within the Education sector, this school is part of a wider multi-academy trust and provides a dynamic and structured environment for both students and staff. They believe in open communication and transparency, building trust and fostering strong relationships with employees and the wider school community.

About the Job

A permanent opportunity for an experienced HR professional to lead and manage the daily operations of the HR function within a school setting. The role will support senior leadership and be responsible for overseeing the HR team and reception, managing all HR administration in line with statutory and trust-wide policies.

Duties will include:

• Managing the full range of HR employee relations, including grievances, disciplinaries, investigations, and restructures.

• Advising senior leadership on performance management and complex HR matters.

• Overseeing recruitment and selection, from job adverts through to appointment, ensuring compliance with safer recruitment standards.

• Managing the induction and probation processes, including ongoing review and development of procedures.

• Monitoring absence data, conducting meetings, and referring to Occupational Health where necessary.

• Leading payroll administration in collaboration with finance, including pay changes, increments, and reconciliation.

• Maintaining and auditing statutory records including the Single Central Record and Training Logs.

• Completing the annual staff workforce census in line with statutory requirements.

• Leading a team including HR staff and the reception team, ensuring high-quality front-of-house service and HR support.

About the Successful Applicant

The ideal candidate will be CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent) with a strong background in HR management, preferably within education. They must demonstrate up-to-date employment law knowledge, excellent communication and influencing skills, and proven experience in handling employee relations matters. A calm, professional approach and the ability to manage competing priorities are essential.

What You Will Receive in Return

You’ll be joining a supportive and well-structured environment within a growing educational trust that values professional development and offers a meaningful role supporting staff and students. You will benefit from generous annual leave, a strong emphasis on work-life balance, and the opportunity to make a real impact in a community-focused setting.

HR Operations Manager – Oxford – £44,000 - £49,000