Head of Reward Operations

Company: Randstad UK
Apply for the Head of Reward Operations
Location: Chester
Job Description:

We are exclusively partnering with one of our global, highly regarded clients to identify a visionary Senior HR executive with profound expertise in payroll and personnel administration to join their UK head office as Head of Reward Operations UK.

As a key leader in the people function you will operate across both strategic and operational axes, so this high-profile role offers a substantial remit, international collaboration, and the significant independence required to drive major transformation initiatives.

The successful candidate will position the function as a true business partner utilising data, technology, and emerging AI to optimise costs, mitigate risks, and enhance the overall employee experience whilst ensuring the seamless, compliant delivery of full-scope payroll, time, and personal administration services.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Set a meaningful vision and objectives for the UK team, ensuring close alignment with overarching global business strategies.
  • Ensure all Reward Operations services are delivered on time, to quality, and within cost parameters, while maintaining absolute compliance with UK legislation and GDPR.
  • Lead the assessment, feasibility, and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into operations to maximise efficiency while robustly managing associated risks.
  • Foster international harmonisation and standardisation, ensuring the UK function contributes effectively to global projects and works seamlessly with Global Business Services.
  • Resource, develop, and inspire your team. Promote well-being and work-life balance as the cultural norm, actively improving engagement levels and developing individual competencies.
  • Cultivate an environment of continuous improvement and innovation, actively detecting and eliminating non-added-value activities.

Required Skills and Experience:

  • Proven experience in a senior HR leadership role with exceptional people management skills and a track record of inspiring large teams.
  • Strong, up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll legislation, tax regulations, and compliance.
  • Robust familiarity with payroll software, HRIS, and HCM systems (experience with SAP and Workday is highly advantageous).
  • Demonstrated experience leading significant operational projects underpinned by recognised change management methodologies.
  • A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Relevant professional payroll certifications would be a distinct advantage.

Posted: June 6th, 2026