Project Manager - Target Operating Model

La Fosse Associates; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An international accounting and advisory firm in the UK is seeking a Project Manager to lead the delivery of a Target Operating Model (TOM) for the HR function. This role involves planning, executing, and managing HR transformation initiatives to optimize processes and improve operational efficiency. The ideal candidate should have strong project management skills, experience with stakeholder engagement, and familiarity with HR systems like Workday. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Experience delivering complex HR transformation projects.
• Understanding of HR processes and Shared Services models.
• Capability to manage cross-functional stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and delivery of the HR TOM project.
• Coordinate HR process mapping and KPI definition.
• Ensure integration of TOM changes with HR systems.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Change management

HR process optimisation

Analytical skills

Collaboration

Education

PRINCE2 Practitioner or equivalent

Agile/Scrum certification

PMP or APM certification

Tools

Workday

Asana

MS Project

Job description

Our client was formed in 2016, as a result of bringing leading-edge UK and Nordic business services companies together. For decades, they have provided business-critical support to thousands of clients throughout the UK and the Nordic region. Today, they are an international accounting, tax, advisory and business services company that delivers sustained outcomes for our clients. They are on a mission to help organisations of all shapes and sizes move forward with confidence.

The group has over 9,000 people and supports some 100,000 clients across its network of 190+ offices in the UK, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Estonia and Romania. Its clients include enterprises, SMEs, large scale businesses, public sector organisations, and private clients, across multiple sectors. It generates revenues of approximately £740 million and has acquired more than 100 local providers since inception.

PURPOSE OF ROLE

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the delivery of a Target Operating Model (TOM) for the People function. This strategic initiative aims to standardise and optimise People’s core processes, embedding a scalable operating model that supports our growth ambitions.

The Project Manager will work closely with HR Business Analysts and key stakeholders to map processes, define KPIs, identify process improvements, and implement governance frameworks. This role is pivotal in ensuring successful delivery of TOM objectives, driving operational efficiency, and enabling a seamless employee experience.

DIMENSION OF ROLE

Leads the delivery of the HR Target Operating Model (TOM) across multiple markets, ensuring alignment with our strategic objectives and HR transformation roadmap.

Owns project governance and delivery discipline, applying PMO standards and frameworks to ensure successful execution of scope, timelines, and benefits.

Coordinates cross-functional workstreams including HR Business Analysts, Shared Services, IT, Finance, and People Analytics to deliver process mapping, KPI definition, and optimisation initiatives.

Drives stakeholder engagement and change adoption, ensuring TOM principles are embedded across HR operations and supported by robust communication and training plans.

Manages integration of TOM changes with HR systems, Shared Services processes, and compliance requirements, ensuring scalability and best practice.

Reports on progress, risks, and benefits realisation to senior stakeholders and PMO leadership, maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the project lifecycle.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS

• HR Leadership Team & Business Unit HR Directors
• Global HRIS Manager
• HR Shared Services & Local HR Teams
• M&A Team
• IT, Finance & Data Governance Teams
• People Analytics Manager
• Third‑party HR system vendors & technology providers

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Delivery

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of the HR TOM project, ensuring scope, timelines, and benefits are achieved.
• Coordinate workstreams focused on process mapping, KPI definition, and HR service optimisation.
• Manage risks, issues, dependencies, and benefits realisation, escalating where necessary.
• Ensure integration of TOM changes with HR systems, Shared Services, and compliance requirements.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the primary point of contact for HR leadership, Shared Services, IT, Finance, and People Analytics teams.
• Build strong relationships across HR and business units to align priorities and secure commitment.
• Facilitate workshops with HR Business Analysts and stakeholders to validate process maps and KPIs.

PMO Standards & Governance

• Apply and champion PMO frameworks, tools, and governance standards.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, reporting, and dashboards.
• Capture lessons learned and share insights to support continuous improvement.

Change Management & Adoption

• Drive adoption of new processes and operating models through structured change management.
• Support training and communication plans to embed TOM changes across HR teams.
• Monitor and report on stakeholder engagement and readiness.

KEY MEASUREMENTS OF SUCCESS / KPIS

• End-to-end HR process maps aligned to TOM principles.
• Defined KPIs and performance measures for HR services.
• Recommendations for process improvements and automation opportunities.
• Governance framework and operating model documentation.
• Successful implementation of TOM changes within agreed timelines.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Qualifications (Desirable)

Project Management

• PRINCE2 Practitioner or equivalent (essential for structured delivery).
• Agile/Scrum certification (beneficial for iterative delivery).
• PMP (Project Management Professional) or APM (Association for Project Management) certification.

Change Management

• Prosci Change Management Certification or similar (highly recommended for embedding TOM changes).
• Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or above) – for process improvement and efficiency.

Technical & Tools

• Familiarity with HRIS platforms (Workday).
• Proficiency in project management tools (Asana, MS Project, or similar).
• Strong understanding of data governance and GDPR compliance.

Essential

• Proven experience delivering complex HR transformation or operating model projects.
• Strong understanding of HR processes, Shared Services models, and process optimisation.
• Expertise in project management methodologies (PRINCE2, Agile, or equivalent).
• Ability to manage cross-functional stakeholders and influence without direct authority.
• Experience in change management and embedding new ways of working.

Desirable

• Familiarity with HRIS platforms (Workday, SAP, PeopleXD, Sympa, or similar).
• Exposure to mergers & acquisitions and HR integration projects.
• Knowledge of GDPR and HR data governance requirements.

Behaviours & Attributes

• Collaborative and inclusive – builds strong relationships across functions.
• Delivery-focused – maintains momentum and accountability.
• Analytical and structured – able to translate complex requirements into actionable plans.
• Resilient and adaptable – thrives in a fast‑paced, evolving environment.
• Role model for our leadership behaviours – clarity, integrity, creativity, and commitment.