Shahad Ali

A dedicated People Operations professional with 5+ years of experience delivering high-quality HR services within shared services environments. Currently working as a Senior People Operations Associate, acting as a first point of escalation for complex operational matters, leading process improvement initiatives, and coaching junior team members to drive day-to-day operational excellence. Experienced across the full employee lifecycle with a strong track record of delivering against SLAs and service standards.

I am passionate about continuous learning and creating a workplace where people feel supported and valued.

Senior People Operations Associate at Oxford International Education Group (2024-01 – Present)

• Led the transition of the company pension scheme to a new provider, ensuring smooth implementation with stakeholders and reducing administrative workload by 50%
• Acted as first point of escalation for complex HR operational queries, ensuring timely resolution in line with SLAs and service standards
• Identified process improvement opportunities through cross-functional collaboration with Finance, IT and key stakeholders, using data analysis to enhance service quality and operational efficiency
• Managed end-to-end employee lifecycle transactions including onboarding, contractual changes, and offboarding, maintaining full accuracy within the HCM platform
• Responded to employee and manager queries via shared inboxes and ticketing system, ensuring an employee-centric experience across all touchpoints
• Developed an internal People Manual aligning policies and procedures with legal requirements, reducing compliance risk and supporting best practice
• Coached and supervised junior team members and hiring managers, supporting their professional development and operational performance against KPIs
• Automated onboarding letters and background checks, reducing manual workload and improving efficiency across People Operations

HR Assistant at Oxford International Education Group (2022-01 – 2024-12)

• Onboarded 300+ new starters and managed the full employee lifecycle driving continuous process improvement
• Maintained accurate personnel files and HR documentation, ensuring safeguarding checks were completed including DBS, references, and right-to-work
• Maintained the HR system, ensuring data accuracy across all employee records in line with data management standards
• Administered monthly payroll and benefits in collaboration with Finance and external stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and smooth delivery
• Supported employee relations matters by attending ER meetings, assisting the Business Partner, and maintaining accurate case records
• Provided first-line support on HR policies, payroll, and benefits queries, escalating complex matters to the appropriate HR partner

BSc in Psychology – Birkbeck, University of London (2016-01 – 2019-12)

CIPD Level 5 Diploma in People Management – Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (2022-01 – 2025-12)