At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and culture initiatives to create an inclusive, high-performing environment.
- Company: Join British Rowing, a values-driven organisation committed to teamwork and inclusion.
- Benefits: Part-time role with competitive salary and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with leadership and shape organisational culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on workplace culture and champion employee wellbeing.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in senior HR roles, strong knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 63000 £ per year.
British Rowing are seeking a values-led, compassionate and courageous HR leader who will champion their people, lead with kindness, and help them build an inclusive, high-performing culture where everyone can thrive.
Our Values
British Rowing is a values-driven organisation, proud to represent a sport built on teamwork, respect, integrity, ambition and inclusion. We believe people perform at their best when they feel safe, valued, supported and inspired.
This role will play a central part in shaping how it feels to work at British Rowing ensuring our values are lived every day, not simply stated.
The Head of HR & Culture plays a pivotal role in enabling our people and organisation to flourish. Working closely with the CEO and Executive Team, you will lead the delivery of high-quality, pragmatic and progressive HR services for over 80 employees across two sites and a remote workforce. You will also provide strategic leadership of our organisational culture programme, helping to shape behaviours, ways of working and leadership capability that support long-term success.
This is a highly visible role that blends strategic leadership, hands-on delivery and cultural stewardship. You will be the trusted expert on people matters, a coach to leaders, and a champion for inclusion, wellbeing and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic & Culture Leadership
- Lead and evolve British Rowing’s people and culture strategy in line with organisational objectives and values.
- Partner with the CEO and Executive Team to shape a positive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture.
- Act as a role model for values-led leadership, psychological safety and respectful behaviours.
- Support culture change initiatives, employee engagement programmes and organisational development activity.
- HR Leadership & Operations
- Lead employee relations casework including performance, attendance, disciplinary, grievance and wellbeing matters.
- Provide expert, pragmatic and timely HR advice to staff and managers across the organisation.
- Ensure HR policies, procedures and practices are up-to-date, legally compliant and consistently applied.
- Monitor and brief the organisation on changes in employment legislation and best practice.
- Talent & Performance
- Oversee recruitment and selection processes, ensuring fair, inclusive and effective hiring practices.
- Lead the annual performance review process and support managers to deliver meaningful performance conversations.
- Strengthen induction, onboarding and probation processes to ensure a positive employee experience.
- Support learning and development activity, leadership development and succession planning.
- Systems, Governance & Partnerships
- Own and continually improve HR systems, data, processes and records.
- Work closely with Finance to ensure accurate and timely payroll delivery.
- Manage relationships with external HR, legal and occupational health providers as required.
- Lead on Investor in People accreditation and related improvement activity.
- Engagement & Accessibility
- Build strong, trusted relationships with Directors, managers and staff.
- Run regular HR clinics (online, Hammersmith and Caversham).
- Act as a visible, approachable presence across the organisation.
This list is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive, as there may be other duties and requirements associated with the post, which British Rowing may call upon the post-holder to perform from time to time.
Person Specification
- Significant experience (typically 8+ years) in a senior HR or people role.
- Proven experience providing both strategic and operational HR leadership.
- Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
- Excellent interpersonal, influencing and communication skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Strong organisational and planning skills with a high level of attention to detail.
- A hands-on, pragmatic practitioner with a strong bias for action.
- Ability to build trust and credibility with stakeholders at all levels.
- CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent experience.
- Experience leading organisational culture or change programmes.
- Experience within sport, charity or membership-based organisations.
Additional Information
The post-holder is expected to comply with the core requirements of the WADA Anti-Doping Code and its requirement on Coaches and Athlete Support Personnel to set a good personal example in this field. When directly working with coaches and athletes the post-holder has a responsibility to inform them appropriately of the Code’s application to them and to influence them in following a Clean Sport culture. The post-holder will be expected to hold a current Clean Sport certificate relevant to the role they hold, and/or attend a Clean Sport induction provided by British Rowing.
Hours
Standard working hours are 9:00–17:00, Monday to Friday. Flexibility is required to meet organisational needs. This role will be 4 days a week, Salary £45k (FTE £56,250).
Type: Part-Time, Permanent - 4 days a week, Location: Hammersmith, Caversham, Remote
Application Dates: From Thursday 12th February 2026 to Friday 27th February 2026
Head of HR and Culture in Reading employer: British Rowing
British Rowing is an exceptional employer that prioritises a values-driven culture, fostering an environment where employees feel safe, valued, and inspired. With a commitment to inclusivity and high performance, the organisation offers significant opportunities for personal and professional growth, alongside a supportive work culture that champions wellbeing and continuous improvement. Located in Hammersmith and Caversham, with flexible remote working options, British Rowing provides a unique chance to lead impactful HR initiatives within a passionate community dedicated to the sport.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR and Culture in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, especially those who have experience in sports or charity organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up at industry events or workshops. Not only will you learn a thing or two, but you'll also meet potential employers face-to-face. Remember, first impressions count, so bring your A-game!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching British Rowing’s values and culture. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission of inclusivity and high performance. Be ready to share examples that showcase your leadership style.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR and Culture in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Values:Make sure to highlight how your personal values align with British Rowing's. We want to see your commitment to teamwork, respect, integrity, ambition, and inclusion in your application.
Be Specific About Your Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples that showcase your strategic and operational HR leadership. We love a good story that illustrates your impact!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. Tailor them to reflect the key responsibilities and person specification outlined in the job description. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for this role!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Rowing
✨Embrace the Values
British Rowing is all about teamwork, respect, and inclusion. Make sure you understand these values and can share examples of how you've embodied them in your previous roles. Show that you're not just a fit for the job, but also for their culture.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about real-life situations where you've had to lead with kindness or handle sensitive HR matters. Think of specific examples that highlight your compassionate leadership style and your ability to foster an inclusive environment.
✨Know Your Employment Law
Brush up on UK employment law and best practices, as this role requires a strong understanding of legal compliance. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex HR issues in the past and how you stay updated on changes in legislation.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
This position is about shaping culture and strategy, so come prepared to discuss your vision for HR at British Rowing. Think about how you would approach their organisational culture programme and be ready to share innovative ideas that align with their goals.
