At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR initiatives, provide expert advice, and support managers in people management.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Computer Science Department.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, a great pension scheme, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on HR practices and develop your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experienced HR professional with strong knowledge of employment legislation.
The predicted salary is between 47779 - 47779 £ per year.
The Department of Computer Science is seeking an experienced, proactive and people-focused HR professional to join our ambitious and evolving HR team as Deputy HR Manager. This is a key leadership role within the HR team and an opportunity to make a real contribution to how our service develops.
Working in close partnership with the HR Manager, you will help lead the day-to-day delivery of a high-quality, responsive and forward-looking HR service. You will provide expert, pragmatic advice on a broad range of people matters, taking a lead on employee relations casework and supporting managers to navigate complex situations with confidence and good judgement. You will bring a strong understanding of HR practice and employment legislation, ensuring University policy is applied fairly, consistently and inclusively.
An important part of the role will be developing others. You will coach and support HR colleagues to build their knowledge, confidence and professional judgement. You will also work with managers across the Department, building effective partnerships and encouraging confident and responsible people management. Alongside operational delivery, you will work closely with the HR Manager to identify opportunities for improvement, strengthen ways of working and continue the development of our HR service. We are looking for someone who is comfortable contributing ideas, constructively challenging existing approaches and turning improvements into action.
You will be an experienced HR professional with strong technical knowledge, sound judgement and a genuine interest in developing both people and services. We are looking for someone who is proactive, approachable and comfortable taking ownership. You will know when to make a decision, when to challenge constructively and when to seek another perspective. You will be able to manage difficult conversations sensitively and confidently, while maintaining effective relationships and service delivery across competing priorities.
The Deputy HR Manager will work closely with the HR Manager, bringing their own expertise, ideas and perspective to the partnership. We are looking for someone who wants to contribute, question, problem-solve and shape our direction together. You will be joining at an exciting point in the development of the HR function, with the opportunity to influence how we work, develop the team and help build an HR service characterised by expertise, trust, ownership and continuous improvement.
The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic. The Department of Computer Science at Oxford is renowned for pioneering research and teaching across diverse fields, consistently ranking among the best in the world. Our commitment to innovation drives us to tackle complex technological and societal challenges.
What We Offer:
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave (pro-rata for part time jobs)
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
This role offers a flexibility of hybrid working with a mixture of on-site and remote working possible. The usual on-site presence for departmental staff is 3 days per week.
Diversity: Committed to equality and valuing diversity.
Application Process: You will be required to upload a supporting statement and an up-to-date CV as part of your online application. Your supporting statement should clearly demonstrate how you meet each of the essential selection criteria listed in the job description. Applications that do not include a supporting statement and CV, or fail to address the criteria in sufficient detail, will not be considered. While we recognise the value of AI tools in supporting application preparation, applications should reflect your own experience, achievements and understanding of the role. Applications that appear generic or fail to demonstrate personal insight may not be progressed.
The closing date for applications is midday on 31st August 2026. Interviews are expected to be held in mid‑late September.
Deputy HR Manager in Oxford employer: Corehr
Sheffield Hallam University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Smart Interactive Technologies Lab. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects aimed at improving maternal health outcomes, all while benefiting from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth and development. Join us in making a meaningful difference in healthcare through responsible and human-centred digital innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy HR Manager in Oxford
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Corehr!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Corehr.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy HR Manager in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Corehr. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Corehr and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Corehr. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Corehr's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Corehr.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Corehr will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Corehr and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
