HR Continuous Improvement Lead

About Astellas Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com . Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients? We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact. Purpose and Scope: The Continuous Improvement Lead will work in partnership across multiple stakeholders; geographies and time zones to, develop and implement innovative and cohesive solutions to implement, drive, and improve the Global Process Owner (GPO) end to end HR processes and service The role will be responsible for driving consistency of service delivery standards and solutioning of continuous service improvement opportunities to ensure the delivery is continuously improving and reflects best practice benchmarks The role will contribute to the development and implementation of the strategy to maximise cost effectiveness, align with business needs and in compliance comply with legal requirements The role will ensure processes are compliant, fit-for-purpose for the future and will manage improvements to processes and services to increase efficiency The role will analyse Service Quality (3rd party provider SLAs), understanding trends and completing root cause analysis to identify continuous improvement opportunities and develop options / proposals / business cases for changes in service delivery – to be reviewed and approved by senior stakeholders The role will own and oversee the implementation of all service transition and continuous improvement projects The role will act as an Account Mgmt. (point of contact) for broader HR colleagues across the CoE and Business Partner teams – ensuring they are properly supported by the People Services function The role will act as a custodian for employee experience aligned with business outcomes and overall HR vision, purpose and objectives. R esponsibilities and Accountabilities: Strategic Planning: Develop and maintain a strategic continuous improvement plan for HR focusing on reliability and high performance across operational, query, and transactional activities. Change Solutioning: Design and implement changes in scope and service to support the dynamic HR environment. Account Management: Serve as the primary contact for HR GPO, ensuring alignment with global models and principles, and supporting HR Business Partners (HRBPs) and Centers of Excellence (CoEs). Service Transition Oversight: Oversee transitions of scope/processes to third-party providers (NGA & Conduent), aligning HR activities with the agreed HR Operating Model. Third-Party Management: Support day-to-day account management of service delivery by third parties, acting as a point of contact as needed. Change Request Tracking: Manage and track business-as-usual change requests with third-party providers, collaborating with HR Operations stakeholders. Stakeholder Alignment: Ensure senior stakeholders inside and outside People Services are aligned with the HR Service Delivery model and objectives. Performance Analysis: Review and analyze service reports from third-party providers, manage SLAs, and use data insights to drive improved performance. Model Stabilization: Drive the stabilization and adoption of the Global People Services Model (including myHR, Global Payroll, Global Time, and People Services Specialists) for respective countries/clusters. Required Qualifications: Substantial experience in a leadership position encompassing HR, customer service and project management Sound knowledge and experience in Employee Experience across core HR functions (e.g. Compensation, Benefits, Performance Management, etc.) with substantial experience in HR process design, transaction support and employee administration within a multinational organisation – across geographical regions Sound knowledge and experience of HR metrics and their applicability Excellent written and oral communication skills in English Experience in the development and implementation of a range of continuous improvement projects, including both technology and process improvement in a cross-cultural, multinational setting Strong knowledge and experience Project Management Tools and Techniques An in-depth knowledge and understanding of the HR employee lifecycle Good understanding of employment law, its application and best practice. Proven excellent people manager with an ability to lead and motivate a team Experience of coaching employees and managers on employee lifecycle processes Experience of delivering to customer service targets within a complex environment Ability to multi-task and alter direction easily to accommodate changing priorities Sound judgement to manage conflicting priorities and manage client expectations. Experience of creating and managing a budget Chartered MCIPD or equivalent qualification, or equivalent HR experience. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certified. Working Environment: At Astellas we recognize the importance of work/life balance, and we are proud to offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues at the office with the flexibility to also work from home. We believe this will optimize the most productive work environment for all employees to succeed and deliver. Hybrid work from certain locations may be permitted in accordance with Astellas’ Responsible Flexibility What awaits you at Astellas? Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide. Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day. Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare. A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions. Our Organizational Values and Behaviors Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do. Behaviors: We come together as ‘One Astellas’, working with courage and a sense of urgency. We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution.