At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and operations, ensuring compliance and fostering a people-focused culture.
- Company: Join a prestigious educational institution committed to inclusivity, sustainability, and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Be part of key committees and lead strategic HR initiatives that drive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee experience while shaping the future of HR in education.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and CIPD Level 7 required; extensive senior HR leadership experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re partnering with a prestigious educational institution in search of an Interim Head of HR to provide both strategic direction and operational leadership across all HR functions. This is a pivotal role that aligns people practices with the College’s core values of inclusivity, sustainability, and wellbeing. As the most senior HR professional in the College, you will advise on complex HR issues, lead a capable HR team, and ensure full compliance with UK employment legislation while fostering a high-performing, people-focused culture.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic HR Leadership
- Develop and implement a forward-thinking HR strategy aligned with the Institutions vision and long-term objectives.
- Act as a key advisor to senior leadership and Council on workforce planning, talent development, and strategic HR initiatives.
- Lead, mentor, and support the HR team, cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and service excellence.
- Ensure all HR policies and practices remain legally compliant and reflect best practice.
- Serve as the lead HR Business Partner and principal contact for complex employment law matters.
- Manage the HR budget and work with Finance to optimise HR systems and resources.
- Operational HR Delivery
- Provide expert, solutions-focused advice to leaders, managers, and staff across academic and support functions.
- Oversee employee relations and ensure fair, consistent handling of complex HR cases.
- Lead on recruitment, onboarding, and job design, ensuring consistency with organisational needs.
- Drive performance management, learning and development, and feedback frameworks.
- Ensure compliance with immigration and visa requirements (UKVI), and oversee accurate and secure HR data management.
- Champion staff wellbeing, occupational health, and a strong induction process.
- Liaise closely with the Secretary to Council on governance, fellowship, and related matters.
- Policy, Governance & Compliance
- Ensure all HR policies and procedures are legally compliant, up-to-date, and clearly communicated.
- Provide guidance on statutory obligations and work closely with governance colleagues to uphold compliance.
- Strengthen internal HR governance frameworks and reporting processes.
- Committee Engagement
- Actively contribute to key committees including the Employment Consultative Committee, HR Committee, and Prevent Committee.
- Offer expert insights on legislative changes and HR policy matters.
- Oversee secretariat support for HR-related committees.
- Project & Change Management
- Lead strategic HR initiatives such as staff surveys, pay and benefits reviews, and workforce planning projects.
- Champion organisational development and change initiatives that enhance employee experience and engagement.
- Monitor external HR trends and introduce innovative practices aligned with institutional goals.
Candidate Profile:
Qualifications & Experience
- Educated to degree level (essential).
- CIPD Level 7 or equivalent postgraduate qualification (essential).
- Extensive senior-level HR leadership experience, ideally with a strong background in business partnering.
- Proven track record of delivering change and implementing HR systems. (Desirable)
- Experience within higher education or a similar academic/collegiate setting.
- In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
Skills & Attributes
- Credible advisor and coach with strong stakeholder management skills.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing capabilities.
- Strategic mindset combined with hands-on operational delivery.
- Resilient, organised, and adaptable to a dynamic working environment.
- Collaborative leader with a track record of developing high-performing teams.
- Tech-savvy, with proficiency in HRIS and Microsoft Office tools.
- Professional, discreet, and aligned with the values of integrity and inclusion.
Head of Human Resources in Ely employer: Burman Recruitment
As a prestigious educational institution, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of inclusivity, sustainability, and wellbeing, making us an exceptional employer for the Head of Human Resources role. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our supportive environment that encourages continuous improvement and professional development, while our strategic focus ensures that HR practices align with our core values. Located in a vibrant academic community, we offer unique opportunities to engage with diverse talent and contribute to meaningful change within the institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources in Ely
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Burman Recruitment and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources in Ely
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Burman Recruitment. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burman Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Burman Recruitment, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Burman Recruitment uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Burman Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Burman Recruitment.
