At a Glance
- Tasks: Partner with senior leaders to shape people strategy and drive organisational change.
- Company: Join Edinburgh Napier University, a hub of innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, a 35-hour week, and great learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to creating inclusive cultures.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by influencing decision-making and fostering high-performing teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR partnering, organisational development, and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic HR professional who thrives in complex environments and enjoys partnering with senior leaders to shape people strategy and organisational change? We’re looking for a People Partner to join Edinburgh Napier University. This is a high-impact role where you’ll partner with senior leaders, influence decision-making, and play a key role in delivering our People Strategy and broader University ambitions.
About the Role
As a People Partner, you’ll work closely with Deans, Directors and senior leaders, acting as a trusted adviser and critical friend. You’ll bring strong people insight to support workforce planning, organisational design and complex decision-making, helping leaders navigate change and deliver their strategic priorities. Operating in a diverse and evolving environment, you’ll balance strategic input with hands-on delivery, managing multiple priorities while building strong, credible relationships across the University.
What You’ll Do
- Partner with senior leaders to deliver strategic people priorities
- Provide expert advice on complex organisational change and people challenges
- Lead workforce planning, organisational design and people impact assessments
- Use data and insight to inform decision-making and identify trends, risks and opportunities
- Support leadership teams to build high-performing, engaged and effective teams
- Lead and support change initiatives, ensuring the human side of change is effectively managed
- Work collaboratively across the People Team to deliver integrated people solutions
- Drive engagement, culture and capability aligned to University priorities
- Ensure strong governance, compliance and professional standards
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in an HR Partnering or consultancy role within a complex organisation
- Strong experience of organisational development and leading change initiatives
- Ability to influence and build credibility with senior stakeholders
- Experience balancing strategic priorities with operational delivery
- Strong analytical capability, with the ability to translate data into insight
- Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills
- Resilience and sound judgement in a fast-paced environment
- Passion for creating inclusive, high-performing cultures
Why Join Us?
At Edinburgh Napier University, we’re committed to innovation, collaboration and excellence. This is an opportunity to work as part of a forward-thinking People Team, partner with senior leaders across the University, and deliver meaningful organisational impact.
Minimum of 41 days annual leave (including 10 fixed holidays)
35-hour working week
Learning and development opportunities
Access to Vivup benefits platform (retailer discounts, healthcare, Cycle to Work)
Strategic HR Partner for Change & People Strategy in Edinburgh employer: Edinburgh Napier University
Edinburgh Napier University is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for strategic HR professionals. With a commitment to employee growth, you will benefit from extensive learning opportunities, a generous annual leave policy, and a supportive environment that values your contributions to shaping people strategy and organisational change. Join us in Edinburgh, where you can make a meaningful impact while enjoying a balanced work-life experience.
Contact Details:
Edinburgh Napier University Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic HR Partner for Change & People Strategy in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Edinburgh Napier University on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the role. Personal connections can give you insights that no job description can.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the university's recent initiatives and challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their People Strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've influenced change and partnered with senior leaders in the past. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that experience to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making an impact at Edinburgh Napier University.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic HR Partner for Change & People Strategy in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Strategic HR Partner role. Highlight your experience in organisational change and how you've partnered with senior leaders in the past. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves using data to inform decision-making, don’t forget to mention any relevant analytical experience. Share examples of how you've translated data into actionable insights in previous roles. We love a good data story!
Demonstrate Your People Skills:This position is all about building relationships, so make sure to highlight your communication and negotiation skills. Share specific instances where you've influenced stakeholders or led teams through change. We’re looking for those strong interpersonal vibes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and let us know why you’d be a great fit!
How to prepare for a job interview at Edinburgh Napier University
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Edinburgh Napier University's People Strategy and recent organisational changes. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they align with your own experience in HR. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare examples of how you've successfully partnered with senior leaders in the past. Highlight specific instances where your strategic input led to positive outcomes in workforce planning or organisational design. This will demonstrate your ability to influence decision-making effectively.
✨Data is Your Friend
Be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform your HR strategies. Bring examples of trends you've identified and how you've translated those insights into actionable plans. This will showcase your analytical skills and your ability to drive change based on evidence.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current challenges and express genuine interest in their perspectives. This will not only show your relationship-building skills but also position you as a trusted adviser right from the start.
