People Operations Manager, UK and Europe

For a quarter of a century, the Jellycat family have brought joy, wonder and playful fun to people of all ages, in every part of the world. Utterly original and in a class of their own, they are currently among the most loved and collected toys of their kind. How has this gentle tribe endeared themselves to so many? Perhaps it is their whimsical expressions. Or the deliciously soft fabrics. Or the beautiful way in which they sit in your hand. Whatever it is, there is something magical and unmistakeable about each one of them.

The Jellycat People Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and improving all HR operational processes within the organisation and providing a professional and responsive service to the business. This role ensures efficient and effective delivery of core People services, including onboarding, offboarding, contracts, HR information systems (Hibob), employee data management and compliance with employment regulations in the UK and Europe. Working closely with their counterparts in North America and Asia, the People Operations Manager will ensure a seamless employee experience, operational excellence, and compliance with People guidelines and legal requirements.

This role will report into the Head of People UK, but will work closely with and take direction from the Head of Compensation & Benefits.

You'll be;

• Managing and continuously improving core People processes, such as employee onboarding and offboarding, induction, salary changes, annual pay review and benefits administration.
• Overseeing employee data management, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with data protection regulations (e.g. GDPR).
• Ensuring People processes are standardised, documented, and aligned with business needs.
• Leading efforts to enhance the People service delivery model, utilising technology and process improvement strategies.
• Working with HR operations leads in other regions (North America & China) to ensure consistency in guidelines and processes.
• Working closely with the Payroll Manager to ensure the smooth operation of the monthly payrolls.
• Supporting the Head of Compensation & benefits on data requests and the administration of timely and accurate reporting.
• Managing the Jellycat HRIS system (Hibob) to ensure accurate and timely processing of HR transactions, employee data, and benefits.
• Reviewing ways of working with the HRIS to ensure we are continuously maximizing the system capabilities.
• Collaborating with IT and external suppliers to troubleshoot system issues and implement enhancements.
• Ensuring HR data is accurately maintained and up to date in the HRIS and other relevant systems.
• Providing continuous education to the team on the system.
• Ensuring compliance with local employment laws, and internal People policies & implementing necessary adjustments to processes and guidelines and communicating with the team.
• Managing internal and external HR audits, including documentation and reporting for compliance purposes.
• Leading and developing the People operations administrator, providing guidance, coaching, and performance management.
• Fostering a collaborative team culture focused on continuous improvement and customer service excellence.
• Acting as a key point of escalation for HR operational issues, resolving complex problems and ensuring high levels of service.

You'll have;

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in HR operations with at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory capacity.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems (preferably Hi Bob).
• Strong knowledge of HR policies, labour laws, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communicator with professional interpersonal skills.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail and highly organised.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.