Senior HR Operations Advisor

Here’s a summary of the role:  

We are in search of an experienced HR Operations Advisor with profound knowledge of Germany labour laws and proven record of delivering HR services in Germany, ideally possessing a working knowledge of Workday. As the ideal Senior HR Operations Advisor, you will possess a strong track record of successfully managing HR operations within Germany, ensuring compliance with local labour regulations. Experience of liaising with German Works Councils or working in Collective Bargaining environment is essential for this role.

To be considered, you must be based in Germany, as we are unable to support you with any residency or visas. You must also be fluent in German (native/C2) and English languages.  

This is a hybrid role, requiring at least three days per week in the office. We support your work-life balance with a mix of in-office collaboration and home-based productivity.

Regrettably, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship, so you must be eligible to work in Germany on a permanent basis. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll do (not all of it, just the important stuff):

HR Operations Delivery and Compliance:

• Own the day-to-day HR operations services delivery across the different entities of Germany and Europe. This includes managing HR employee life cycle processes such as new hire orientation, onboarding, terminations, payroll, compensation & benefits administration, all in compliance with German and European HR policies, procedures, and employment laws and regulations
• Work hand in hand with your HRBPs to manage any involuntary terminations
• Producing standard and non-standard offer letters / employment contracts and employment change letters
• Supporting the annual promotion and pay review processes
• Stay up to date with changes in German employment laws and regulations and update HR policies and procedures accordingly in collaboration with your HRBPs
• Ensure HR Ops processes and policies are up to date and compliant with all relevant local employment procedures and regulations

Works Council Collaboration:

• Collaborate closely with HR Business Partners (HRBPs) to develop a strong working relationship with and engage with Works Councils, for compliance and maintaining positive labour relations.

Workday System Management:

• Utilize Workday as the HRIS for employee data management, payroll reporting and generate reports. Continuously ensure data accuracy and integrity by conducting your own regular audits
• Support HRBPs in the development and implementation of HR initiatives and projects in line with YouGov goals across German entities

Team Collaboration and Process Improvement:

• Close working with global HR Operations colleagues and other cross-functional teams to implement best practices projects in line with wider HR goals and strategies
• Review existing processes/procedures and drive continuous improvement for operational efficiency
• Provide guidance and support to the HROps team on complex matters

These are the essentials you’ll need to get an interview:

• At least 5 years of proven experience in HR operations in Germany
• Experience working with Works Councils, including preparing and providing reports while ensuring compliance with requirements
• German native language skills, both spoken and written, and good command of English
• Strong risk management awareness with a keen ability to identify and assess potential risks to ensure compliance

Behavioural competencies

• Ability to multitask, prioritise and perform well under pressure to meet deadlines
• Ability to work accurately in a fast-paced global environment
• Be customer-focused and understand what a positive customer experience looks like

It would be great if you had these to, but we’ll support you if you don’t:

• Degree in HR or similar qualification 
• Working knowledge of Germany Works Council and exposure to Union environment is highly preferred
• Proficiency in other European languages and previous experience working in other European countries would be considered an advantage
• Experience working with Workday
• Experience of working with Jira

What can you expect when you become a YouGover? 

• You get 27 days of annual leave per year to begin with (will increase with service up to 36 days per year). In addition to this YouGov offers a designated day off that you can use to rest and recharge as we understand the importance of health and wellbeing
• The DeutschlandTicket scheme allows you to use public transport all over Germany (usually €58 per month however through YG it is €9 monthly).
• You will also have the option to work abroad for up to 30 days in a calendar year
• We’re big on learning, so all YouGovers have first-hand access to the vast number of courses available to help you develop your career.  
• Employer contribution of 15% towards private pension or direct insurance (BAV).

Please note, applications and CVs should be sent in English.