At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and manage complex employee relations in a global research environment.
- Company: Globally recognised academic institution with a focus on research and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous pension, 38 days leave, hybrid working, and family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a senior leadership role within a diverse, international organisation.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 and proven experience in senior HR leadership roles.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
About the Organisation: A globally recognised, research-intensive academic institution is seeking an experienced Interim Head of HR to support a large, complex division delivering world-leading research across the UK and internationally. This is a senior leadership role within a highly matrixed environment, supporting multiple research units and a globally distributed workforce.
The Opportunity: This is a critical interim leadership role reporting into the Chief Operating Officer, with responsibility for leading the HR function and partnering with senior stakeholders across a diverse, international organisation. You will operate at both strategic and operational levels, driving HR strategy, leading change initiatives, and managing complex employee relations and organisational challenges. The role also has a unique global dimension, supporting workforce models that include a significant number of internationally based staff across multiple jurisdictions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic HR Leadership: Shape and deliver the HR strategy aligned to organisational priorities; Partner with senior leadership to drive change, transformation, and workforce planning; Lead on HR aspects of governance, risk, and compliance frameworks; Provide expert advice on complex international employment models and structures; Champion equality, diversity & inclusion across the organisation; Lead HR projects and cyclical programmes to time and quality standards.
- HR Leadership & Team Management: Lead and develop a high-performing HR function (c. 20+ team members); Provide leadership, coaching, and direction to HR managers and wider team; Drive continuous improvement and innovation in HR service delivery; Foster a customer-focused, high-performance culture.
- HR Operations & Service Delivery: Act as escalation point for complex employee relations cases; Advise senior stakeholders on high-risk and sensitive HR matters; Lead on dispute resolution, mediation, and investigations; Liaise with legal and central HR functions to mitigate organisational risk; Support senior recruitment, including business cases for executive hires; Oversee international working arrangements, secondments, and funding models.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong relationships across operational and academic leadership teams; Collaborate with central functions and external partners; Represent HR on internal committees and working groups.
About You:
Essential: CIPD Level 7; Proven experience in a senior HR leadership role within a complex organisation; Strong track record of delivering HR strategy and leading change initiatives; Deep knowledge of UK employment law and risk management; Extensive experience managing complex employee relations cases; Experience leading and developing HR teams; Excellent stakeholder management, influencing, and communication skills; Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making capability.
Desirable: Experience within higher education, research, or similarly complex environments; Exposure to international workforce models and global HR challenges; Experience with EDI frameworks and initiatives; Chartered CIPD status.
What’s on Offer: Generous pension scheme; 38 days annual leave; Hybrid working model (4 days onsite); Family-friendly policies and childcare support; Travel and transport benefits; Access to social, cultural, and sporting facilities; Inclusive and collaborative working environment.
interim Head of HR in South Cave employer: Burman Recruitment
As a globally recognised academic institution, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our generous benefits, including a robust pension scheme, 38 days of annual leave, and a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. Join us in a dynamic environment where you can lead impactful HR initiatives and support a diverse, international workforce dedicated to world-leading research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land interim Head of HR in South Cave
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or industry leaders. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with professionals in HR roles similar to the one you're after. This is your chance to learn about their experiences and get advice on how to navigate the hiring process. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the field!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to highlight your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Share specific examples of how you've led change initiatives or managed complex employee relations cases. Let them see the value you bring!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only streamlines the process but also gives you a better chance of being noticed by our hiring team. We’re excited to see what you can bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace interim Head of HR in South Cave
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Interim Head of HR. Highlight your experience in strategic HR leadership and managing complex employee relations, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in driving change and working with diverse teams.
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 role. Mention your understanding of UK employment law and your experience with international workforce models. Keep it engaging and personal, showing us your passion for HR.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In both your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your leadership style. We want to see how you’ve developed high-performing teams and fostered a customer-focused culture. Share anecdotes that demonstrate your coaching and mentoring abilities.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burman Recruitment
✨Know Your HR Strategy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the HR strategy of the organisation. Understand how it aligns with their research goals and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to shaping and delivering that strategy.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Skills
Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully led change initiatives. Highlight your strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities, especially in complex environments, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Expertise
Think about how you’ve built strong relationships with senior stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to share specific instances where your influencing and communication skills made a difference in achieving HR objectives.
✨Familiarise Yourself with International Employment Models
Given the global dimension of the role, brush up on your knowledge of international employment law and workforce models. Be prepared to discuss how you would navigate these complexities and support a diverse, distributed workforce.
