Manager People & Culture Operations

About Us

The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) is a leading organisation at the intersection of science, medicine and justice. We provide independent forensic medical and scientific expertise to support the justice system, deliver crucial evidence that underpins safe convictions and appropriate acquittals, and contribute to public health and community safety through education, and research.

Our work is complex and deeply meaningful. From investigating deaths reported to the Coroner, to supporting victims of crime and enabling life-changing tissue donation through the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria, VIFM plays a critical role in Victoria's justice and health systems.

What truly sets VIFM apart is our people and our culture. Guided by our values of Respect, Openness, Service, Integrity and Innovation, we foster a workplace where expertise is valued, collaboration is encouraged, and purpose sits at the heart of everything we do.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief People Officer, you'll lead the day-to-day delivery of People & Culture operations, including advisory services, employee and industrial relations, payroll, occupational health and safety, governance, policy and workforce services.

You'll lead a team of four, support managers and employees with practical advice, and improve how services are delivered through stronger systems, clear processes and a focus on continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

Lead, coach and develop the People & Culture Operations team to deliver consistent, high-quality services.

Manage employee and industrial relations matters, including case management and dispute resolution.

Oversee payroll operations, workforce services, HR records, governance and policy processes.

Lead occupational health and safety, WorkCover, return to work and workplace adjustment processes.

Support organisational change, restructures and consultation activities with sound operational delivery.

Use workforce insights and service data to improve systems, processes, compliance and user experience.

About You

You're an experienced People & Culture leader who brings calm, sound judgement and a service mindset to complex operational environments.

To be successful, you'll bring senior experience across people operations, employee and industrial relations, governance, payroll or workforce services, with the confidence to lead a team and provide practical advice in a regulated environment.

You'll bring:

Senior experience in People & Culture operations, advisory services or a related HR leadership role.

Strong knowledge of employee relations, industrial relations, policy, governance and compliance.

Experience leading teams, supporting managers and navigating sensitive or complex matters.

A practical approach to improving systems, processes, service delivery and employee experience.

Relevant qualifications in Human Resources or a related discipline, or equivalent senior professional

This is a chance to make a meaningful contribution by leading the services, systems and support that help people do their best work.

Ready to Apply?

If this role sounds like a good fit, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit:

A current resume; and

A cover letter addressed to Natasha Buckle, Manager, People & Culture Programs, outlining your suitability for the role and how your skills and experience align with the key selection criteria.

What we offer

At VIFM, you'll do meaningful work in a supportive environment. Benefits include:

An Employee Assistance Program

Peer Support Programs

Annual Influenza Vaccination Program

Discount on Health Insurance through HCF

Social Club Membership

Flexible Work

Myki and V/Line Commuter Club

Novated Leasing

Our Recruitment Process

The successful candidate will be required to complete pre-employment checks, including reference checks, national police checks and misconduct screening. Depending on the role, other checks may also apply.

If you require adjustments or an alternative format for any application material, please let us know so we can support you through the recruitment process.