People Systems and Project Lead

Are you ready to lead innovative projects and shape how people services evolve for the future? Are you passionate about improving systems to deliver smarter, more efficient services? We are looking for an experienced and motivated colleague to join our People and Organisational Development team as a temporary maternity cover for the role of People Systems and Projects Lead. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys improving systems, working with data, and supporting service development. The role is central to the development, maintenance and continuous improvement of our HR and Payroll systems, helping to ensure our people data is accurate, accessible and used effectively to support informed decision-making across the organisation. What will your day look like? Your day-to-day role will focus on leading the development, optimisation and continual improvement of our HR and Payroll systems, ensuring they are used to their full potential to deliver accurate, efficient and customer-focused services. You'll work at the heart of People Services, driving innovation in how we use technology, data and processes to support our organisation. A key part of your role will be driving systems-related projects, including system enhancements, new implementations and process improvements. This will involve planning and managing projects, working closely with stakeholders, and ensuring successful delivery of new solutions that improve how we work. You will:

• Act as the lead for HR and Payroll systems, ensuring they meet organisational and legislative requirements

• Oversee system configuration, upgrades and development, working with suppliers and stakeholders

• Drive continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance systems, processes and user experience

• Develop and deliver training to colleagues, improving system capability across the organisation

• Support with data quality, reporting (including FOIs and statutory returns) and system governance

• Troubleshoot system issues, conduct root cause analysis and create effective solutions

• Build strong relationships across services to support change, innovation and cultural improvement, We love AI and think it plays a great role in the world of work. However, for your application, we want to hear from YOU! As such, we will be testing applications to determine the use of AI, and applications that have heavily utilised the function will be scrutinised for suitability.

Do you have experience in Root cause analysis?, We are looking for someone who brings significant experience in development and maintenance of HR&Payroll systems or a similar technical environment, along with a strong track record of delivering system improvements, projects or business change initiatives. You will have the ability to analyse and interpret complex data, turning it into clear insights and meaningful recommendations, as well as experience working with systems such as iTrent, Power BI or similar platforms (or transferable systems experience. You will also be confident delivering training and supporting users with varying levels of technical ability and demonstrate excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. You'll also be:

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines

• A proactive problem solver with a solutions-focused approach

• Comfortable driving change and working in a fast-paced, evolving environment

• Skilled in building relationships and influencing across teams

• Passionate about continuous improvement, innovation and delivering excellent service

• Good knowledge of Microsoft 365 and confidence working with reporting and digital tools

A relevant qualification (e.g. CIPD, ICT, Business Management (or equivalent experience) and project management experience are essential.

Pulled from the full job description

• Employee discount

• Free parking

• Company pension

• Car scheme, You'll be part of a supportive service where your work will have real impact. This is an exciting opportunity to lead meaningful change, shape how we use systems and data, and improve services across the organisation. We offer:

• A collaborative and innovative working environment

• Opportunities to lead impactful projects and develop your expertise

• Ongoing professional development and support

• A blended working approach, with flexibility between home and office-based working

This is a pivotal role where you'll help drive improvements, enhance systems and influence how we deliver People and Organisational Development Services for the future. This opportunity is offered on a fixed-term basis to cover maternity leave, from July 2026, for 30 hours per week. Secondment applications are welcome, subject to line manager agreement., As part of your RewardNEL package, you will have a generous leave entitlement (including bank holidays) and enrolment into a local government pension. You will also have access to our exclusive RewardNEL platform. This includes a variety of salary sacrifice schemes including Cycle2Work, Holiday Extra and Tusker (Car Lease), discounts at local coffee shops and bars, direct access to our inhouse wellbeing support, free and discounted local car parking as well as instant access to new savings at major retailers, entertainment and hotels.

NELC staff can also benefit from flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities and a Fostering friendly scheme. Do you need support? If you need any help applying for this position, please contact Wendy Trask on 07702 338542 (text or call). Wendy can support with digital access as well as offering advice and guidance about completing the different sections of the application form. Your earnings go further in North East Lincolnshire, house prices are four times less than in London. Learn more about what our place has to offer at Life in North East Lincolnshire | NELC (nelincs.gov.uk) #FindYourSpace Get to know us better Check out our Council Plan and read about all of the exciting new developments we have in the pipeline. We regularly review data to ensure our recruitment processes are fair, transparent and promote equal opportunities for all. We also have an in-house Equalities Champions Group that works to promote and embed inclusivity in the workplace, helping us identify areas where we can take positive action, and make the organisation a safe space for colleagues to feel connected.