People Services Team Manager (Data and Systems)

Background of department/role

We are seeking an innovative and experienced professional who is passionate about transforming HR services through workforce data and people systems.

As the People Services Team Manager (Data and Systems), the successful candidate will be pivotal in overseeing the development and optimisation of our HR and Payroll system, driving improvements in workforce data quality and governance, and leading the delivery of meaningful people analytics that support organisational planning and decision making. 

You will play a key role in shaping the future of People Services, exploring opportunities to harness current and emerging technologies to improve efficiency, enhance the employee experience and create greater value from our workforce data.

Reporting to the Head of People Services, the successful candidate will ensure key stakeholders have access to accurate, timely and meaningful People data that supports strategic operations and the delivery of our People Strategy.  The effective management of workforce planning activities within agreed principles will be critical to the University’s ‘Establishment’, as well as the accurate collation and on-time delivery of all required statutory and industry-led data returns.

The successful candidate will lead the team with ongoing maintenance of our people systems, as well as identifying, driving and implementing improvements to ensure systems remain secure, compliant and fit for future organisational needs.  A user-centred focus and continuous improvement approach through evaluating our processes and service provision will be key.  

This role requires interaction with a wide range of stakeholders and is an exciting opportunity for an experienced systems and data professional who is passionate about the challenge of combining people, systems, data and innovation to make a real organisational impact.

How will you work?

We are committed to supporting flexible methods of working wherever possible and this role is, Flexible and Connected – Canterbury Campus attendance will vary on a day-to-day basis but it is expected that there will be a relatively even balance between time spent on and off campus; but in most cases the work location will be determined by the service required or the tasks/activities being undertaken. 

2/3 days on site per week required depending on business need. 

How to apply

Closing Date for Applications: 22nd of September 2026
Interviews are to be held: To be confirmed shortly after closing

If you require further information regarding the post please feel free to contact carina.gilshnan@canterbury.ac.uk (strictly no agencies, thank you) quoting reference number REQ06418.

Please note a full application including a covering letter detailing your experience alongside a CV is required for applications to be considered.  Please be advised applications made without providing a cover letter will not be accepted. 

Please note, Canterbury Christ Church University reserve the right to bring the closing date of this position forward where a high volume of applications is received. 

£35,608 to £37,694 per annum with further progression opportunities up to £39,906 

Generous Annual Leave entitlement 25 days plus bank holidays, Plus additional days around Christmas

Various Staff discounts via Totum 

LGPS Pension