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- Tasks: Lead a people-first transformation and drive culture change at NOC.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in marine science and ocean research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to empower diverse teams and make a positive impact on our oceans.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in HR, with skills in organisational development and culture change.
- Other info: We encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups.
The predicted salary is between 99400 - 118424 £ per year.
National Oceanography Centre (NOC)
Director of People & Culture
Salary: £99, 412 + benefits
Location: Southampton / Hybrid with occasional travel to Liverpool
Join the National Oceanography Centre to lead a people-first transformation at one of the world’s most innovative ocean research institutions.
Our aim at NOC is to build a world where everyone feels empowered and inspired to help our oceans thrive.
As one of the world leaders in marine science, we lead the UK’s National Capability in oceanography, manage Europe’s largest fleet of autonomous and robotic marine vehicles, and operate two state-of-the-art research ships, RRS Discovery and RRS James Cook. Through our trading subsidiary, NOC Innovations Ltd, we provide a vital link between science and business, enabling technology and research to transfer to industry.
An independent charitable organisation, we have a skilled and experienced Executive team and Board, supported by high calibre colleagues across Southampton, Liverpool and on our research ships. As we implement our ambitious 2025–2035 vision, we are seeking a visionaryDirector of People & Cultureto lead a bold transformation of our people strategy.
This is not a conventional HR leadership role. As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will drive the evolution of our people function into a strategic powerhouse—building a high-performing, inclusive, and future-ready organisation.
You will lead culture transformation, champion leadership development, and embed innovative, data-driven people strategies that empower our diverse workforce to thrive.
What you’ll bring:
- Proven senior leadership experience in HR or People roles within complex organisations
- Expertise in organisational development, culture change, and strategic transformation
- Strong analytical and influencing skills, with the ability to engage executive teams and boards
- A passion for inclusive, values-led leadership and creating exceptional employee experiences
- Vision, solutions-based thinking and the ability to drive innovation
At NOC, our mission is to make sense of changing seas for the benefit of humanity. Our people are at the heart of this mission—and we are committed to building a culture that is innovative, diverse, and empowering. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are especially keen to hear from those in underrepresented groups.
If you’re inspired by science, sustainability, and shaping a vibrant organisational culture, we’d love to hear from you.
To find out more please click on Apply. If you meet the criteria and would like to have a confidential discussion, please contact our retained partners at GatenbySanderson:
Jennie Wood, Lead Researcher, Not for Profit Practice
Fiona Wansborough, Partner, Not for Profit Practice
Closing date: 7 July at 9am
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Director of People & Culture employer: National Oceanography Centre (NOC)
Contact Detail:
National Oceanography Centre (NOC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Culture
✨Tip Number 1
Research the National Oceanography Centre's mission and values thoroughly. Understanding their commitment to ocean research and culture transformation will help you align your vision with theirs during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of NOC on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations for the Director of People & Culture role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative, data-driven people strategies that you've implemented in previous roles. Highlighting specific examples of how you've driven culture change and leadership development will demonstrate your capability to lead their transformation.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to articulate your passion for inclusive leadership. NOC is keen on creating exceptional employee experiences, so sharing your thoughts on fostering diversity and inclusion within teams will resonate well with their values.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Culture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of People & Culture position at NOC. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their vision for a people-first transformation.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should reflect your senior leadership experience in HR or People roles. Emphasise your expertise in organisational development and culture change, and include specific examples of how you've driven strategic transformation in previous roles.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for inclusive, values-led leadership. Discuss your vision for transforming organisational culture and how you plan to empower a diverse workforce. Make sure to connect your personal values with those of NOC.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: When detailing your achievements, focus on quantifiable results that demonstrate your analytical and influencing skills. Use metrics to showcase how your initiatives have positively impacted employee experiences and organisational performance.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Oceanography Centre (NOC)
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take the time to research the National Oceanography Centre's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their focus on ocean research and how they aim to empower their workforce. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Director of People & Culture, it's crucial to highlight your previous leadership roles. Prepare specific examples that showcase your experience in driving culture change and organisational development. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully influenced executive teams and implemented strategic transformations in past positions.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Values-led Leadership
Given NOC's commitment to diversity and inclusion, be prepared to discuss your approach to creating an inclusive workplace. Share examples of how you've championed values-led leadership and fostered exceptional employee experiences in your previous roles. This will resonate well with their vision for a vibrant organisational culture.
✨Prepare Data-Driven Insights
Since the role involves embedding innovative, data-driven people strategies, come equipped with insights or case studies that illustrate your analytical skills. Discuss how you've used data to inform decision-making and drive positive outcomes in HR practices. This will demonstrate your capability to lead a strategic powerhouse in the people function.
