Interim HR Operations Manager

Contract Civic Recruitment Limited United Kingdom

Posted On 19/03/2026

Job Information

Work Experience 4-5 years

Human Resources

City Woolley

Province Somerset

Postal Code BA1

Job Description

52 weeks contract role with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• Interim HR Operations Manager for Somerset Council providing senior operational leadership across HR services.
• Focused on stabilising, developing, and embedding the Pay & Reward function during organisational transition.
• Responsible for ensuring high-quality HR service delivery, strengthening governance, and leading continuous improvement across HR Operations.
• Plays a key role in preparing the organisation for the Total Pay & Reward Programme while maintaining strong BAU performance.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Provide senior operational leadership across HR Operations, ensuring a consistent, customer-focused service.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to streamline HR processes and enhance efficiency.
• Manage and develop the Pay & Reward team, ensuring high performance and service delivery.
• Oversee job evaluation processes, ensuring fairness, consistency, and compliance.
• Lead reward, benefits, and recognition strategies to support attraction and retention.
• Manage establishment control frameworks, ensuring strong governance, accurate data, and reporting.
• Support development and implementation of HR policies, particularly within Reward and Operations.
• Provide expert HR advice to senior stakeholders on complex operational and organisational issues.
• Build strong relationships with HR Business Partners, senior leaders, Trade Unions, and stakeholders.
• Support digital transformation and modernisation of HR systems and processes.
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation, council policies, and best practice.
• Lead, coach, and develop team members, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Skills/Experience:

• Significant experience in HR Operations leadership, ideally within local government or public sector.
• Strong expertise in Pay & Reward, Compensation & Benefits, and job evaluation methodologies.
• Proven experience managing HR teams and developing staff capability.
• Experience leading HR operational improvement or transformation initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of HR policies, employment law, and governance frameworks.
• Ability to influence and advise senior stakeholders, including Directors and Trade Unions.
• Experience in establishment management, workforce planning, and HR data/reporting.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience implementing quality assurance and performance frameworks.
• CIPD qualification (or equivalent) and evidence of continuous professional development.
• Experience within unionised environments and public sector settings (desirable).

Additional Information:

• Location: The Crescent, Taunton (Hybrid - 2-3 days office-based).