Job Description

People & Operations Manager

About the Firm

Our client is a forward-thinking, technology-driven office that partners with ambitious SMEs companies. They take pride in their strong client relationships, professionalism, and collaborative team culture. As the business continues to grow, we are seeking a People and Operations Manager to enhance internal operations and oversee daily workflows. This role will ensure that the people are supported, motivated, and aligned with the goals of both the company and its customers.

The Role

This is a hands-on and strategic position, responsible for leading all aspects of our people function, from culture and engagement to compliance and performance. You’ll embed the existing systems and tools, develop the team, and make sure the directors can focus on growing the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the firm’s people and culture strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals.
• Embed workflow systems, ensuring adoption, consistent usage, identifying training needs.
• Develop Capability and Performance: Create development pathways, performance frameworks, and regular feedback systems to enhance skill, growth and accountability.
• Support Strategic Growth: Partner with directors to translate the firm’s business goals into people and culture strategies that drive performance and client satisfaction.
• Manage recruitment, onboarding, and employee lifecycle processes.
• Deliver structured performance reviews and personal development plans.
• Coach managers and staff on effective communication both internally and with customers.
• Handle compliance administration and deadlines.
• Provide directors with timely reports and data-driven insights on team performance and the progress of all active projects.
• Support learning and development, including professional qualifications.
• Control of multiple email inboxes and diaries.

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Proven experience in People and / or Operational Management (ideally within a professional services business, or similar SME environments).
• Strong commercial business acumen with 10 years + experience.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, confident dealing with all levels of the business.
• Tech-literate, with experience using workflow tools.
• Ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on delivery.

Desirable:

• Proven experience of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience of managing business or operational change.

Personal Attributes

• Emotionally intelligent, approachable, and trusted by staff.
• Highly organised and proactive problem-solver.
• Commercially aware, understands how people drive business success.
• Calm under pressure, with sound judgment and confidentiality.
• Passionate about creating an inclusive, positive workplace culture.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays.
• Pension scheme
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

Join this dynamic team and contribute to the continued growth! If you’re an ambitious individual with a passion for your work, we’d love to hear from you.

About Square Peg Associates:

At Square Peg Associates, we are a leading recruitment consultancy specialising in finance and commercial business professionals within the North West of England. Our approach is personal and tailored to each candidate. We not only consider the qualifications listed on their CVs but also take the time to understand them on a deeper level. Before representing any candidate to our esteemed client base, we build strong relationships with them.

If you’re interested in exploring our current vacancies, visit our website at Squarepegassociates.co.uk.