Group HR Operations Manager

Role Overview

We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and ambitious hands on Group HR Operations Manager. You will be responsible for managing and administrating the HR function across multiple regions in a multifaceted organisation.

The role is responsible for ensuring efficient, compliant, and scalable HR processes, systems, and governance frameworks in a fast-paced, PE backed environment. You will partner closely with regional HR, Finance, Legal, and senior stakeholders to standardise processes, drive efficiencies, and support integration of acquisitions.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and optimise end-to-end HR operational processes across the employee lifecycle (onboarding to offboarding)
• Establish and maintain scalable, standardised HR operating models across EU, South Africa, and Canada
• Ensure compliance with local employment legislation across all jurisdictions (EU, SA, Canada)
• Maintain robust HR policies, controls, and audit ready documentation
• Partner with Legal and Finance on regulatory requirements, risk mitigation, and due diligence support
• Oversee data privacy and GDPR compliance across HR systems and processes
• Ensure data integrity, reporting accuracy, and effective HR analytics capability
• Deliver regular reporting for leadership, including headcount, attrition, and employee metrics
• Support integration of HR systems during M&A activity
• Oversee payroll operations across multiple countries, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Manage benefits administration and broker/vendor relationships
• Drive cost efficiency and harmonisation of benefits where appropriate
• Lead HR operational integration of acquired businesses, including systems, policies, and processes
• Align acquired entities to group standards while managing local nuances
• Partner with senior leaders and functional heads
• Act as a trusted advisor on HR operations, and organisational efficiency
• Collaborate closely with Finance on budgeting, headcount planning, and reporting
• Manage HR/Talent Team across multiple jurisdictions
• Manage and develop a team of HR/Talent professionals across multiple jurisdictions, driving performance and delivery against organisational objectives.

Skills & Experience Essential

• 6-10+ years' experience in HR Operations, ideally within a PE backed, high growth, or international environment
• Proven experience managing HR operations across multiple countries (EU required; SA/Canada advantageous)
• Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR governance frameworks
• Demonstrated success in process improvement, standardisation, and scaling HR functions
• Strong analytical and data driven mindset
• Experience managing teams

Desirable

• Experience in cyber security, technology, or professional services
• Exposure to M&A activity and post merger integration
• Payroll oversight across multiple jurisdictions

Personal Attributes

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Commercially minded with ability to operate in a PE environment
• Resilient and adaptable in a fast paced, evolving business
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
• Hands on approach with a continuous improvement mindset