Head of HR Operations

We are looking to recruit a person with substantial expertise and experience in delivering a high quality end-to-end employee lifecycle service for all LFB employees The successful candidate must hold a CIPD Qualification (Level 7) or equivalent experience, with an excellent understanding of relevant Human Resources employment law and legislation compliance.

This is an exciting time to join the HR team as a senior leader, as the department is playing a fundamental role in the delivery of the London Fire Commissioner’s ambitious transformation agenda. To enable us to deliver the people priorities associated with such transformation, we have a new strategy for the department, which includes a new operating model for the HR function. The postholder will be responsible for working closely with the HR Director and the department’s senior leadership team to develop and implement the new model, ensuring that customer focus is at the heart of HR delivery and that it effectively responds to changing business needs.

You will be responsible for leading an innovative, efficient and effective HR Operations function and team in a fast paced environment, specifically covering a wide range of customer driven services including HR Services, Recruitment, HR Data and HR Policy and Reward, whilst also focusing on continuous improvement of HR operations to support the delivery of the organisation’s people priorities of leadership, development and talent, wellbeing, employee engagement and diversity and inclusion.

You will provide specialist expertise to the HR Director, to the organisation’s corporate management team and to Heads of Service on all aspects of HR Operations. You will also oversee implementation of a new Resourcing Strategy and HR system, maximising the opportunity for automation, streamlined processes and empowerment of managers and staff.

We are looking for someone who will think and act strategically to develop practical, innovative and creative solutions. Working with both internal and external stakeholders, you will have strong persuading and influencing abilities together with strong analytical and reasoning skills, quickly establishing rapport and credibility with staff at all levels.

Please note that for the first 12-18 months, the postholder will be heavily involved in the transition to a new operating model for the HR function (of which this role is part). As such, the exact responsibilities set out in the job description may change.

You will be a key member of the People Services leadership team, advancing the London Fire Commissioner’s (LFC) plans for transformation, whilst actively promoting and embedding LFB’s Values of Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Equity, Courage and Learning.

This role provides a unique opportunity to help shape the future of the London Fire Brigade and hence the experiences of Londoners, through helping the organisation to get the best from its people.

Further information about the main duties and responsibilities of the role are detailed in the job description.

We value the diversity of our employees and aim to recruit a workforce which reflects our diverse communities across London. The London Fire Commissioner is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we positively welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals, irrespective of people’s age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances. We have guidance in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability.

Assessment Overview

Stage 1

Online application, CV and cover letter (sift). Shortlisted candidates will be invited to stage 2.

To apply, please complete the online application, provide a cover letter (
max. of two sided A4) clearly outlining the relevant qualifications, experience, skills and knowledge you have to successfully perform this role (see job description below) and upload a copy of your up-to-date CV.

Please ensure you give yourself enough time to complete and submit your application. Late or un-submitted applications cannot be accepted.

Please note any correspondence received from us will be via e-mail and sent to the address you provide on your application form.

Stage 2

Assessment dates for this role are to be confirmed. Please be advised that if you are unable to make the scheduled assessment date, we may not be able to make alternative arrangements.

Please note: Should you be shortlisted for stage 2, assessment will take place at LFB headquarters (Union Street, London) or exceptionally via Microsoft Teams. You will be asked to provide relevant contact details for that to take place.

Candidates invited to stage 2 will be asked to provide a short, written presentation which will be reviewed and scored against the competencies set out in the Role Competencies section of the job description.

Candidates will be required to undergo a stakeholder panel interview as well as a competency-based interview with the Senior Leadership team and independent panel members.

Additional Information