At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic HR initiatives and shape a forward-thinking people strategy.
- Company: Join UCL Business, a leader in turning research into impactful innovations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and part-time flexibility.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, innovation-led environment.
- Why this job: Influence organisational culture and drive change at the highest level.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience with a strong track record in complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Company
UCL Business (UCLB) is UCL's expert commercialisation partner, bringing brilliant ideas to life - and to market. Working side by side with UCL's academics, clinicians and innovators we turn exceptional research into successful products, spinouts and technologies that change the way the world works, lives and thrives. From life sciences and AI to sustainability and engineering, UCLB plays a pivotal role in turning UCL's world-class research into real-world impact.
The Role
Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director of People Services will provide strategic leadership across the People function, shaping and delivering a forward-thinking people strategy aligned to UCLB's organisational goals. This is a part-time role (2 days per week), initially offered as a two-year fixed-term contract with the potential to become permanent.
Key areas of focus include:
- Leading strategic workforce planning and organisational design aligned to future growth
- Acting as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team on culture, talent and structure
- Driving a high-performance, engaged and values-led organisational culture
- Overseeing governance, policy and compliance, ensuring best practice and legal alignment
- Leading and developing the People Services team to deliver a high-quality, responsive service
- Supporting organisational change, including change management programmes and transformation initiatives
- Embedding data-driven decision making through HR systems, KPIs and workforce insights
- Providing oversight of reward, payroll governance and benchmarking
This role offers the opportunity to influence at the highest level, including Board and Remuneration Committee engagement.
The Person
You will be a senior, commercially aware HR leader with a proven track record of operating at Executive and Board level. You will bring:
- Extensive experience shaping and delivering people strategy in complex organisations
- A strong track record of advising CEOs and senior stakeholders on workforce planning, culture and organisational design
- Experience leading significant transformation and change management programmes
- Deep knowledge of UK employment law and governance (CIPD Chartered or equivalent)
- Strong expertise in performance management, reward strategy and organisational development
- The ability to translate business strategy into clear, deliverable people plans
- Credibility, gravitas and the ability to influence at the most senior levels
- A pragmatic, solutions-focused approach with sound judgement and high integrity
- Experience within innovation-led, academic, or complex stakeholder environments would be advantageous.
Location: Central London W1T 7NF
Salary & Benefits
Salary: Competitive - POA Excellent benefits package
Director of HR in Slough employer: Alexander Mae HR Ltd
Contact Detail:
Alexander Mae HR Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of HR in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching UCLB and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you showcase how you can contribute to their mission during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it relates to the Director of People Services role. Highlight your strategic leadership skills and how you've driven change in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of HR in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of HR role. Highlight your experience in shaping people strategies and working with senior leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with UCLB's goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this part-time role. Share specific examples of your achievements in HR that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior HR leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. We’re looking for someone who can influence at the highest levels, so don’t hold back on sharing your successes in leading teams and driving change.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Mae HR Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in UCLB’s mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and how they align with your experience in shaping people strategies. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of HR, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change and transformation. Highlight your ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive a high-performance culture.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think about past experiences where you’ve had to navigate complex organisational challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current challenges in workforce planning or how they measure the success of their people strategy. This shows your engagement and strategic mindset.