"Head of HR Operations"

Aston University - Human Resources

Make a Real Impact at a Leading University

Aston University is committed to creating an exceptional employee experience and delivering on our People Strategy as part of the Aston 2030 vision.

We are now seeking an innovative, strategic and people‑centred Head of HR Operations to lead and continuously evolve our HR operations. This is a high‑impact leadership role, responsible for ensuring efficient and compliant HR operations across recruitment and talent acquisition, immigration and the full employee life-cycle. You will shape how our HR function supports the organisation today — and transform how it operates for the future.

The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus and from home dependent on the activity. Further information on dynamic working can be found here.

About the Role

As the Head of HR Operations, you will:

• Lead and modernise HR operations, ensuring alignment with legislation, best practice and organisational governance.
• Oversee recruitment and talent acquisition, immigration and compliance and HR operational activity aligned to the employee life-cycle.
• Drive continuous improvement, automation and service optimisation across systems and processes.
• Partner with leadership teams across HR/OD/EDI to deliver strategic people initiatives.
• Lead and develop three direct reports and their teams, fostering a high‑performance, inclusive and customer‑focused culture.
• Provide timely, data‑driven insights through KPI dashboards and reporting.
• Support Aston’s commitment to being a Great Place to Work through innovation, engagement and operational excellence.

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

• CIPD Level 7 qualified and Chartered Member (or equivalent experience).
• Strong experience leading HR operational teams within a large or complex environment.
• Experience of operationalising strategy and achieving linked targets and KPIs.
• Track record of delivering service improvements, process and systems optimisation and people development.
• Excellent leadership, communication, project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience of end-to-end recruitment processes up to Executive level, bulk and specialist roles.
• Experience or good understanding of UKVI procedures, Right to Work and DBS processes.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.

Desirable:

• Coaching or leadership qualifications.
• Recruitment specific qualifications.
• Experience with job evaluation (e.g., HERA) or reward and benefits.
• Experience in coaching senior leaders and key stakeholders.

Why Join Us?

At Aston University, you’ll be part of a forward‑thinking HR/OD community driving meaningful organisational change. We’re committed to equality, diversity, inclusion and creating a culture where colleagues thrive as their authentic selves.

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package. Visit: Our benefits and rewards page