HR Operations Manager - Germany

This 12-month fixed-term contract offers the opportunity to join one of our favourite mission-driven organisations - a company whose work is genuinely helping to save and improve lives around the world.

At a time of meaningful change, we are seeking an experienced HR Operations and Payroll leader who thrives in dynamic environments. This is a role for someone who enjoys leading a small team, taking ownership of day-to-day HR operations (including payroll), and driving improvements that create real, measurable impact.

You will lead the full HR shared services and payroll agenda for a diverse workforce of blue- and white-collar employees within a global organisation committed to making a difference worldwide. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both operational excellence and a continuous improvement mindset.

We are looking for a professional who can consistently deliver high-quality HR services to employees and managers, while ensuring efficient, compliant, and seamless transactional processes across the entire employee lifecycle. You will manage a small team, uphold service level agreements, and champion people-centric HR operations, including HRIS management, payroll, benefits, and systems optimisation.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Owning end-to-end HR operations, including HRIS administration, employee data management, and process governance.

  • Acting as a senior point of contact for employees and managers, providing practical guidance on operational HR matters.

  • Managing monthly payroll and time administration, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and smooth delivery.

  • Overseeing pensions, benefits, and compensation-related operations.

  • Developing HR reporting and analytics, translating HRIS and other data into actionable insights.

  • Leading and contributing to both local and international HR projects, including digitisation, HRIS enhancements, and operational optimisation.

  • Aligning local HR processes with the wider international HR strategy.

Our ideal professional will be able to offer:

  • Fluent English and German (spoken and written)

  • Solid career history within mid-to-large-sized organisations (apologies but career contractors cannot be considered for this hire).

  • Proven success navigating complex, matrix structures.

  • Strong analytical and data-driven mindset, with the ability to influence stakeholders using evidence.

  • Strong personal presence, confidence, and emotional intelligence, with the courage to challenge and influence effectively.

This role requires a visible, on-site presence to build strong relationships. Candidates must be located within an easy commute of Frankfurt, as this is not a remote position.

The position offers a competitive base salary from €110,000 (with potential to increase depending on experience), plus a generous performance bonus and benefits.

Interviews are being scheduled, with the aim of appointing a suitable professional as soon as possible. 

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