Interim Senior People Adviser (6‑month contract)

About the role

This six‑month interim position provides senior operational leadership for a public sector People Services team undergoing organisational change. You will ensure smooth day‑to‑day HR operations while supporting a payroll implementation project.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily activities of the People Services team, ensuring business‑as‑usual continuity.
• Coach and onboard newly recruited team members.
• Manage payroll administration and related HR processes.
• Handle complex employee and manager queries, escalating when necessary.
• Review and issue maternity, paternity and shared parental leave correspondence, confirming statutory and contractual entitlements.
• Support the People Services Manager during a payroll implementation project.
• Analyse existing processes, identify efficiency improvements and enhance service delivery.
• Assist in defining the future permanent Senior Adviser role and contribute to the Gender Pay Gap report presentation.

Required profile

• Strong operational HR experience, preferably in a public sector environment.
• Excellent knowledge of employment legislation, especially family leave and pay.
• Proven payroll administration expertise.
• Ability to support and coach managers and colleagues autonomously.
• Comfort working in a fast‑paced, change‑driven setting.

Required skills

• Payroll administration processes.
• Employment legislation (family leave and pay).

What we offer

• Six‑month fixed‑term contract with the possibility of extension.
• Competitive hourly rate of £21‑£23.
• Opportunity to lead a high‑visibility HR function within a public sector body.