Human Resources Operations Manager

Sanderson is partnering with an international client that operates across multiple jurisdictions and is committed to delivering high-quality outcomes through strong operational capability and continuous improvement.

We are seeking an HR Operations Manager to drive HR operational delivery across Ireland, the UK and Europe. You will oversee a team across multiple locations, ensuring operational excellence, robust compliance and a consistent employee experience.

This is a hands‑on leadership role combining people management, process optimisation and data‑driven decision‑making across the employee lifecycle.

Hybrid working: 3 days in the office and 2 days working from home, with regular travel to the UK required.

Responsibilities

Team Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead and develop a high-performing People Operations team across Ireland and the UK.
• Partner with HR Business Partners and key stakeholders to align operational HR delivery with broader strategic priorities.
• Strengthen delivery models through cross‑training, resource planning and workload management.

Governance, Compliance and Data Integrity

• Ensure compliance with employment law, GDPR and relevant EU directives across multiple jurisdictions.
• Maintain accurate, audit‑ready HR data and payroll‑related processes.
• Drive improvements in reporting capability and data governance.

Process Improvement and Operational Excellence

• Lead process standardisation and simplification across HR operations.
• Identify inefficiencies and implement data‑led solutions.
• Drive adoption and continuous improvement of HR systems and digital tools.

Employee Lifecycle and Experience

• Oversee onboarding, offboarding and reward administration processes.
• Support employee relations activity across a distributed workforce.
• Promote a culture of accountability, responsiveness and high service standards.

Experience Required

• 5+ years' experience leading HR operations in a multi-site, multi-jurisdiction environment.
• Strong track record in HR service delivery, process improvement and data integrity.
• Experience with HR systems, reporting, payroll data and compliance frameworks.
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders and drive operational outcomes.
• Background in construction, engineering or complex professional services.
• Experience in continuous improvement, process mapping or RACI frameworks.
• Exposure to HRIS or payroll transformation programmes.
• Lean, Six Sigma or other continuous improvement certification.
• Training in employment law, GDPR or HR analytics.

Qualifications

• Degree in HR, Business or a related field.