Head of Human Resources (Operations & Business Partnering) in Glasgow

The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) is a world leading, independent, university-level institution for the visual creative disciplines. We attract some of the finest academic and creative talent and are committed to creating and sustaining learning and working environments, where difference is respected and the widest possible range of cultural and social perspectives are valued.

Applications are invited for a Head of Human Resources. This is a key leadership role at the heart of GSA’s HR team. As Head of Human Resources, you will lead the delivery of a high-quality, people-centred HR service that enables our creative community to thrive. Working closely with the Director of HR and alongside our Head of Organisational Development, you will strengthen and shape HR operations — ensuring our service is responsive, consistent and professionally robust. You will oversee complex employee relations matters, engage constructively with Trade Union colleagues and support organisational change, using workforce insight to inform confident decision-making.

As a member of the HR senior leadership team, you will also contribute to shaping priorities and strengthening delivery of the People Strategy. If you are a credible and highly collaborative HR professional who is motivated by delivery and visible impact, we would welcome your application. You will translate plans into action, maintain momentum across competing priorities and ensure that agreed commitments are followed through. Comfortable taking ownership, you will bring sound judgement, professional integrity and a practical, solution focused approach. Confident working with data and detail, you will use insight to drive improvement and innovation — finding smarter, more effective ways of working. Above all, you will care about fairness, inclusion and the experience of our staff, and be motivated to make a visible, positive difference in a values-led creative institution. This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on how HR operates at the Glasgow School of Art.

Partnering with leaders and teams across the institution, and working closely with colleagues in HR and Organisational Development, you will help create an inclusive, innovative and high-performing environment.

Benefits of Working at GSA

• Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive salary with an annual salary increment and are proud to be an accredited Real Living Wage employer.
• Pension Scheme: Employees benefit from a contributory pension through local government and teaching schemes, ensuring long-term financial security.
• Generous Holiday Entitlement: We provide 35 days of annual leave, plus 11 public holidays, totalling 46 days per year (pro-rata for part-time employees).
• Relocation Support: Financial support is available for relocation expenses for qualifying roles to ease the transition for new employees.
• Salary Sacrifice Benefits: Employees can take advantage of salary sacrifice schemes, including the Cycle to Work program, promoting sustainable commuting options.
• Work-Life Balance: We actively support work-life balance through flexible working and hybrid working policies, helping staff manage professional and personal commitments effectively.
• Health and Wellbeing Initiatives: Our commitment to employee wellness includes access to employee assistance programs and additional mental, physical, and financial support mechanisms.
• Professional Development: We emphasise continuous learning and development, offering an annual contribution and development review, as well as opportunities to attend internal and external training and development programs.
• Employee Recognition: We celebrate our colleagues' dedication and achievements through long service recognition and annual staff awards.

Join GSA and become part of a supportive, forward-thinking organisation that values its employees and their contributions.

Closing date for submission of completed applications: 20th March 2026 at 23:59 (GMT). Interviews for this post will take place on 1st April 2026. For full details and to apply online, please click on the s1jobs APPLY button on this page now. Right to work in the UK is required. Skilled Worker visa sponsorship may be available, subject to eligibility.

The Glasgow School of Art is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity in work and study. We strive to create and maintain an inclusive environment where all students and employees feel safe, understood and valued. Applications are welcomed from candidates regardless of age, disability, sex, ethnic or religious background, gender identity or sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, maternity, caring responsibilities or care experience. We recognise we do not have the diversity of staff that we want and we particularly welcome and encourage applications from candidates who identify as being from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the Glasgow School of Art.

To view our Fair Work statement, please view our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion documents. Registered Charity Number SC012490. STRICTLY NO AGENCIES.