At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the People function through organisational change and shape our culture.
- Company: Join the world’s first children’s hospice and make a lasting difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and a chance to impact local families.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence at Executive and Board level in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a compassionate team shaping the future for those in need.
- Qualifications: Director level experience in HR/People with strong employment law expertise.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
Contract: 6 months fixed term
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Location: Oxford is the primary location, with some opportunity for hybrid working
Salary: £80,000 per annum
Closing date: 12th June 2026 12 noon
Help shape the future of the world’s first children’s hospice and make a lasting difference to local families. We are seeking an experienced Interim Director of People & Culture to join our Executive Team during a significant period of organisational change. This is a unique opportunity to shape our people strategy, culture and organisational design while ensuring we continue to deliver compassionate, high-quality services to those who need us most.
The role:
- Reporting to the CEO and as part of the Executive Team, you’ll lead the People function through a period of organisational change.
- Lead and deliver key organisational change, including operating model and workforce reviews.
- Develop and embed a clear, valued-led culture and people strategy.
- Act as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Executive Team and Board, providing expert insight on people, culture and organisational design.
- Ensure effective, compliant people practices while strengthening capability across staff and volunteers.
Who we’re looking for:
- You are a credible, experienced people leader who delivers impact at pace.
- Director level experience in HR/People/Organisational Development with complex environments.
- Proven track record of leading transformation and shaping organisational culture.
- Strong employment law expertise with the ability to influence at Executive and Board Level.
- CIPD Level 7, CIPD Chartered Membership or equivalent (CIPD Chartered Fellow desirable).
- A pragmatic, collaborative and values led approach.
Apply today and play a key role in shaping a strong and sustainable future for Helen & Douglas House and the families we support.
Please note that everyone working for Helen & Douglas House are required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Helen & Douglas House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and value the benefits of a diverse workforce. We positively encourage applications from all areas of the community.
Interim Director of People & Culture in Oxford employer: Helen and Douglas House
Helen & Douglas House is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of local families through compassionate care. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, we provide a supportive environment where your expertise in people and culture can thrive, especially during this transformative period. Located in Oxford, with flexible hybrid working options, we value diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Director of People & Culture in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR and organisational development space. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities like the Interim Director of People & Culture role. You never know who might have the inside scoop or can put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the organisation's culture and values. Since this role is all about shaping people strategy, be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission. Show them you’re not just a fit on paper but also in spirit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to convey your leadership style and how you’ve successfully led transformation in previous roles. Keep it concise and impactful – think of it as your personal brand statement that highlights your unique value.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Director of People & Culture in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the role of Interim Director of People & Culture. Highlight your leadership in HR and organisational development, and don’t forget to showcase your transformation successes!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for shaping our people strategy and culture, and how your values align with ours.
Showcase Your Expertise:We want to see your knowledge in action! Include specific examples of how you've influenced at the Executive and Board level, and your experience with employment law. This will help us understand your impact in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at Helen and Douglas House
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key aspects of people strategy and organisational culture. Brush up on your knowledge of employment law and be ready to discuss how you've successfully led transformation in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to share specific examples of how you've influenced change at an executive level. Think about times when you’ve acted as a trusted adviser and how your collaborative approach has made a difference in complex environments.
✨Align with Their Values
Research Helen & Douglas House’s mission and values thoroughly. Be ready to articulate how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their compassionate, high-quality services.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your understanding of the challenges they face during this period of change. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
