Why This Job is Featured on The SaaS Jobs
Interim People leadership roles are a recurring need in SaaS, where operating cadence and organisational change can continue regardless of individual absences. This maternity cover stands out because it is designed around continuity in an established People function, with an emphasis on sound judgement and minimal disruption rather than redesigning the operating model.
For SaaS professionals building a People career, the remit touches several core disciplines that travel well across subscription businesses: senior business partnering with executive stakeholders, pragmatic handling of complex employee relations, and reliable delivery of the annual people cycle. Leading a team while staying close to day to day execution also develops the ability to balance strategic advice with operational control, a common expectation in SaaS organisations as they scale headcount and formalise processes.
This position suits an experienced generalist who is comfortable stepping into an existing structure, quickly building trust, and making decisions with incomplete context. It will particularly fit someone who prefers measured, systems minded work, enjoys coaching managers and People specialists, and wants a defined term role that still carries senior influence within a London based SaaS environment.
The section above is editorial commentary from The SaaS Jobs, provided to help SaaS professionals understand the role in a broader industry context.
Job Description
We’re looking for an experienced People Generalist to provide senior leadership and continuity during a 9–12 month maternity cover. You’ll step into a well-functioning People team and focus on stability, sound judgement, and trusted partnership with the business—stepping in hands-on where needed, without disrupting established ways of working.
Some of the things you’ll do:
- People Leadership: Lead and support a team of six, coaching three direct reports to deliver across their respective areas.
- Business Partnering: Act as a trusted advisor to the COO and senior leaders on complex people matters.
- Employee Relations: Own senior escalation of complex ER cases, ensuring fair, compliant, and pragmatic outcomes.
- People Operations: Oversee core People Operations and the annual people cycle to ensure smooth, compliant delivery.
- Function Continuity: Maintain business-as-usual excellence and stability throughout the interim period.
We’re excited if you have:
- Senior People Generalist experience (Head of People, People Lead, or Senior HRBP).
- Hands-on experience in business partnering, Employee Relations, and People Operations.
- Experience leading and developing People teams.
- Background in organisations of c.100–1,000 employees.
- Strong working knowledge of UK employment law.
- Experience in tech, SaaS, or high-growth environments preferred.
