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- Tasks: Support and develop people strategies while navigating complex HR issues.
- Company: Join a collaborative HR team at City College Norwich.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on how the college supports its people.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 qualified with strong HR experience.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence organisational development and employee relations.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 46000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced People Partner to join our HR Services team and work closely with leaders across the college to shape how we support, develop and manage our people. This is a broad and influential role for an HR professional who enjoys combining strong employee relations expertise with strategic workforce thinking. You will partner with managers in allocated areas, helping them navigate complex people issues while also contributing to longer-term organisational development and the delivery of our People Strategy.
Responsibilities
- Acting as a trusted HR partner to leaders and managers, offering pragmatic, balanced advice
- Leading on employee relations casework including performance, attendance, disciplinary and grievance matters
- Supporting managers through change, including restructuring, workforce planning and organisational design
- Coaching and developing leaders to build confidence and capability in people management
- Using data and insight to inform decisions and improve outcomes
- Working constructively with Trade Unions to maintain positive employee relations
- Engaging with external HR networks, benchmarking best practice and bringing new ideas back into the organisation
- Taking an active role in shaping and delivering elements of the People Strategy
Qualifications and profile
- Is CIPD Level 5 qualified (or above) with solid, hands-on HR experience
- Has strong experience of employee relations in a complex or unionised environment
- Enjoys building relationships and influencing at all levels
- Can balance empathy with sound judgement and organisational priorities
- Is curious, commercially aware and committed to continuous improvement
- Wants a role where they can have real impact, not just provide advice from the sidelines
Why join us?
You will be part of a collaborative HR team that values professionalism, fairness and curiosity. You will have the space to think, the backing to challenge constructively, and the opportunity to influence how the college supports its people now and in the future. If you are looking for a People Partner role where relationships, judgement and values genuinely matter, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: Wednesday 4 February 2026 at Midnight
Interviews Thursday 19th February 2026
As a College we are required to undertake various Safer Recruitment checks as set out within the guidance from the Department for Education Keeping Child Safe in Education. We require all staff to undertake an enhanced Adult and Child Workforce DBS Check and to register with the DBS Update Service.
People Partner employer: City College Norwich
Contact Detail:
City College Norwich Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People Partner
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at City College Norwich or similar organisations on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s all about making connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching common HR scenarios. Think about how you would handle complex employee relations issues or support managers through change. We want you to showcase your expertise and strategic thinking!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to behavioural interview questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you demonstrate your experience in a clear and impactful way.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace People Partner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the People Partner role. Highlight your relevant experience in employee relations and strategic workforce thinking, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your CIPD Level 5 and hands-on HR experience make you the perfect fit. Use specific examples to show how you've successfully navigated complex people issues in the past.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value curiosity and a genuine desire to make an impact, so don’t be afraid to express your passion for HR and how you can contribute to our People Strategy.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need to submit your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at City College Norwich
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of a People Partner. Brush up on employee relations, performance management, and organisational design. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully navigated complex people issues or led change initiatives. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your impact.
✨Engage with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the college's values and People Strategy. During the interview, relate your personal values and experiences to theirs. This will demonstrate that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about their approach to employee engagement or how they measure the success of their People Strategy. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely invested in the position.
