- Lead people operations, payroll and HR systems during a major transformation
- Drive process improvement, system optimisation and data-driven decision-making
- 12-month fixed term contract with a values-driven, purpose-led organisation
A leading early childhood organisation is seeking an experienced Head of People Services to oversee people operations, payroll and HR systems during a period of significant growth and change. This 12-month fixed term role is ideal for a strategic, hands-on leader who thrives in complex environments and enjoys building scalable, efficient people processes.
The Role
You’ll lead a high-performing People Services team and take ownership of payroll, HR operations, people administration and HRIS governance. With current systems recently implemented, you’ll play a key role in embedding technology, improving workflows and strengthening data accuracy to support organisation-wide decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the People Services team
- Oversee accurate, compliant payroll delivery
- Streamline people administration processes and governance
- Drive HRIS improvements and system adoption
- Provide expert HR advice on policy, legislation and complex matters
- Deliver meaningful people data, reporting and insights
- Lead people-focused change and continuous improvement initiatives
About You
- Extensive experience in HR, People Services or similar leadership roles
- Strong knowledge of employment legislation, awards and compliance
- Experience with HRIS/workforce systems (Cornerstone or Humanforce highly regarded)
- Proven ability to lead teams and organisation-wide initiatives
- Analytical,
pragmatic and confident navigating complexity
- Sector experience (NFP, community or early childhood) desirable
Why Join You’ll influence organisation-wide systems, shape future people operations and contribute to a purpose-driven organisation committed to high-quality learning and child safety.
Reference Number:
4053126
Date Published:
18-Aug-2026
Contact Name:
Erin Hogan
Contact Email:
[email protected]
By applying for this role, you consent to your personal information being collected, stored, and shared in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.
Your details may be provided to our clients for potential opportunities; however, this will only occur after a discussion with one of our consultants and with your consent. We are committed to handling your information securely and confidentially in line with national privacy requirements.
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The Next Step embraces individuality and differences in gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural background, disability, faith and sexual orientation.
We strive to provide a recruitment experience that’s fair, inclusive and accessible. We encourage all suitable applicants to apply for roles. Please speak to our consultants about any accessibility needs to be considered during the recruitment process.
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📌 Head of People Services (12‑Month Fixed Term Contract) (Melbourne)
🏢 The Next Step
📍 Melbourne