At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a people-first transformation at a top ocean research institution.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in marine science and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Why this job: Shape a diverse, inclusive culture while making a real impact on ocean sustainability.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in HR, with expertise in culture change and strategic transformation.
- Other info: We encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups.
The predicted salary is between 79200 - 111600 £ per year.
Join the National Oceanography Centre to lead a people-first transformation at one of the world’s most innovative ocean research institutions. Our aim at NOC is to build a world where everyone feels empowered and inspired to help our oceans thrive.
As one of the world leaders in marine science, we lead the UK’s National Capability in oceanography, manage Europe’s largest fleet of autonomous and robotic marine vehicles, and operate two state-of-the-art research ships, RRS Discovery and RRS James Cook. Through our trading subsidiary, NOC Innovations Ltd, we provide a vital link between science and business, enabling technology and research to transfer to industry.
An independent charitable organisation, we have a skilled and experienced Executive team and Board, supported by high calibre colleagues across Southampton, Liverpool and on our research ships. As we implement our ambitious 2025–2035 vision, we are seeking a visionary Director of People & Culture to lead a bold transformation of our people strategy. This is not a conventional HR leadership role. As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will drive the evolution of our people function into a strategic powerhouse—building a high-performing, inclusive, and future-ready organisation.
You will lead culture transformation, champion leadership development, and embed innovative, data-driven people strategies that empower our diverse workforce to thrive.
What you’ll bring:
- Proven senior leadership experience in HR or People roles within complex organisations
- Expertise in organisational development, culture change, and strategic transformation
- Strong analytical and influencing skills, with the ability to engage executive teams and boards
- A passion for inclusive, values-led leadership and creating exceptional employee experiences
- Vision, solutions-based thinking and the ability to drive innovation
At NOC, our mission is to make sense of changing seas for the benefit of humanity. Our people are at the heart of this mission—and we are committed to building a culture that is innovative, diverse, and empowering. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are especially keen to hear from those in underrepresented groups. If you’re inspired by science, sustainability, and shaping a vibrant organisational culture, we’d love to hear from you.
To find out more please click on Apply. If you meet the criteria and would like to have a confidential discussion, please contact our retained partners at GatenbySanderson: Jennie Wood, Lead Researcher, Not for Profit Practice; Fiona Wansborough, Partner, Not for Profit Practice.
Closing date: 7 July at 9am.
Director of People & Culture employer: National Oceanography Centre
Contact Detail:
National Oceanography Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Culture
✨Tip Number 1
Research the National Oceanography Centre's current initiatives and values. Understanding their mission to empower and inspire will help you align your vision with theirs, showcasing your passion for their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of NOC on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations for the Director of People & Culture role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative people strategies that you've successfully implemented in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in driving culture transformation and leadership development will demonstrate your capability to lead NOC's ambitious vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your analytical skills by discussing how data-driven decisions have positively impacted employee engagement and organisational performance in your past roles. This will resonate well with NOC's focus on strategic transformation.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Culture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Director of People & Culture at NOC. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially focusing on their emphasis on culture transformation and strategic leadership.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in HR or People roles, particularly in complex organisations. Emphasise your leadership achievements, expertise in organisational development, and any innovative strategies you've implemented.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for inclusive leadership and how you can contribute to NOC's mission. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to drive culture change and engage with executive teams.
Showcase Your Vision: During the application process, be prepared to articulate your vision for the role. Think about how you would approach the transformation of the people function at NOC and be ready to discuss innovative, data-driven strategies that empower a diverse workforce.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Oceanography Centre
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the National Oceanography Centre's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to ocean research and how they empower their workforce will help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your senior leadership experience in HR or People functions. Highlight instances where you've successfully driven culture change or strategic transformation in complex organisations.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Values-led Leadership
Given the emphasis on inclusive leadership at NOC, be ready to discuss how you've fostered diversity and inclusion in previous roles. Share your passion for creating exceptional employee experiences and how it aligns with their vision.
✨Prepare for Analytical Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical and influencing skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data-driven strategies to engage executive teams and boards, and how these strategies have led to successful outcomes in your previous positions.