At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-profile EDI programmes and drive meaningful change across the organisation.
- Company: UCL, a leading institution committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Benefits: 41 days' holiday, pension scheme, cycle to work, and enhanced family leave.
- Other info: Hybrid working with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on EDI initiatives and foster a more inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading complex EDI programmes and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 68284 - 76244 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced EDI professional to provide strategic leadership across a portfolio of high-profile EDI programmes, charter commitments and institutional action plans. As Interim Head of EDI Programmes and Charters, you will lead the delivery, governance and continuous development of major equality initiatives, ensuring progress against organisational priorities and maintaining momentum across a complex portfolio of work.
You will provide strategic oversight of charter activity, including accreditation frameworks and associated action plans, while supporting the development and delivery of positive action programmes designed to improve representation, progression and inclusion. Working closely with senior leaders and stakeholders across UCL, you will drive accountability, monitor progress, identify and manage risks, and ensure that EDI activity delivers meaningful outcomes.
You will lead a specialist team, develop effective reporting frameworks and KPIs, and prepare high-quality reports and papers for senior governance groups. This role will suit an experienced EDI professional who can combine strategic leadership with strong programme delivery. You will be comfortable navigating complex organisational environments, bringing people together around shared objectives and turning ambition into tangible and sustainable change.
Please note this is an internal 6-months secondment role available from 1st October 2026 until 1st March 2027 available to current UCL staff only. The role is offered on a hybrid working basis with currently a minimum of 2-days per week onsite at our London Kings Cross office (subject to change).
We are looking for a highly credible and experienced EDI professional with a strong track record of leading complex programmes, institutional action plans and charter-related activity within large and multifaceted organisations. You will bring a strong understanding of the EDI landscape and experience of translating organisational priorities into effective programmes of work.
You will be confident working with senior stakeholders, providing strategic advice, influencing decision-making and establishing the governance and accountability needed to deliver progress. You will bring significant experience of leading EDI programmes, projects or charter mark initiatives, with experience of working with frameworks such as Athena Swan, the Race Equality Charter, Disability Confident or similar accreditation and benchmarking schemes.
You will have strong programme and project management skills, including experience of governance, risk management, performance reporting and the development of meaningful measures of progress. You will be an experienced people leader with a track record of developing high-performing teams and creating the conditions for colleagues to deliver their best work.
You will have a sound understanding of equality legislation, including the Equality Act 2010, positive action and reasonable adjustments, alongside exceptional communication, relationship-building and influencing skills. You will be able to analyse complex information, use data and evidence to identify priorities, and translate insight into practical action.
Above all, you will bring a demonstrable commitment to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion through meaningful, measurable and sustainable organisational change.
What we offer:
- 41 days' holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional days' annual leave
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and immigration loan
- Relocation support for eligible posts
- On-site nursery and gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Staff Support Service (employee assistance programme)
- Discounted medical insurance
Salary: £68,284-£76,244
Contract Type: Fixed-term (6 months)
Working Pattern: Hybrid (minimum 2 days per week onsite at London Kings Cross office)
Location: London
Interim Head of EDI Programmes & Charters in London employer: Gofractional
Gofractional is an exceptional employer that prioritises a positive candidate experience and fosters a collaborative work culture in the heart of London. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to enhance your skills while working with cutting-edge recruitment technologies. Join us to be part of a team that values kindness, innovation, and the continuous improvement of hiring practices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of EDI Programmes & Charters in London
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of EDI Programmes & Charters in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gofractional
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Gofractional.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Gofractional that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
