HR Project Manager

RSR are recruiting for a HR Project Manager for a central government agency

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be a crucial part of the creation of a brand-new agency. The delivery of Health Data Research Service (HDRS) is moving towards organisational set up and we are looking for a talented HR professional to lead the design and building of the HR apparatus of the new agency from the ground up and manage recruitment. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the design and operation of a brand-new arm’s length body. 

The successful candidate will need to combine strong strategic vision (understanding the policy, operations, legislation, bespoke arrangements, working alongside the CEO and Chair etc), with hands-on, practical delivery of the fundamental HR structures and recruitment for a new public body. 

Title: HR Project Manager
Pay Rate: £80,000 per annum pro rata (FTC) / £40.00 per hour or £300.00 per day PAYE (temp)
Hours: full time, part time, flexible 
Start date: January 2026 / asap 
Contract type: fixed term appointment or temporary contract (estimated 9 months)

Role Overview

This role will be working to set up HDRS, a new government company. This will involve, in the first instance, working with the existing DHSC policy team, and liaising with DHSC HR. You will need to drive and shape the people project plan and will be accountable for its success, and will need to be able to work independently and proactively from the outset.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the development of HDRS’s people strategy, policies and procedures including reward; including advising Ministers and the CEO/Chair on pay scales, pensions etc, and codifying this for the Board
• Supporting with the design and operating model for the new organisation,
• Leading the operational delivery of HDRS’s HR needs, including setting up payroll and HDRS’s fundamental HR infrastructure,
• Recruitment, including of HDRS’s executives, and key programme manager roles, as well as managing recruitment delivery,
• Supporting the onboarding of a new CEO and Chair and designing onboarding approach more generally,
• Preparation and management of temporary and permanent employment contracts (including working with legal experts in the design of contracts),
• Union engagement,
• Planning and Management of possible staff transfer once HDRS exists.

Essential Experience Required

• Successful track record of the practical design and delivery of new HR systems
• Project and change management skills to manage the planning and delivery of people-related strategic objectives
• Proven ability to successfully engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organisation, to inspire confidence in your professional expertise and knowledge and to coach senior leaders
• Highly developed written and oral communication skills
• The ability to be able to quickly understand complex information, and to be able to problem-solve
• Options appraisals and preparing advice for decision makers  
• Chartered Member of the CIPD (or equivalent proven experience)

If you have the relevant experience and would like to apply for this role please send your CV and a short covering letter to Luke.Martin@rsg.ltd.

Due to the high volume of applications received, if you do not hear from us within 7 working days, I am afraid your application has been unsuccessful.

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