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- Tasks: Lead a people-first transformation and drive culture change at NOC.
- Company: Join the National Oceanography Centre, a leader in marine science and ocean research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and a vibrant workplace culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to empower diverse teams and make a positive impact on our oceans.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in HR, with expertise in organisational development and culture change.
- Other info: We encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 115000 £ 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.
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 mission and values thoroughly. Understanding their commitment to ocean research and culture transformation will help you align your vision with theirs 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, data-driven people strategies that you've implemented in previous roles. Highlighting specific examples of how you've driven culture change and leadership development will demonstrate your capability to lead their transformation.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to articulate your passion for inclusive leadership. NOC values diversity and empowerment, so sharing personal stories or initiatives that showcase your commitment to these principles will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Culture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of People & Culture position at the National Oceanography Centre. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their vision for a people-first transformation.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should reflect your senior leadership experience in HR or People roles. Emphasise your expertise in organisational development and culture change, showcasing specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive strategic transformation.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for inclusive, values-led leadership. Discuss how you can contribute to building a high-performing and diverse workforce at NOC, and provide examples of your innovative, data-driven strategies from previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Make sure to highlight your strong analytical and influencing skills in both your CV and cover letter. Provide examples of how you've engaged with executive teams and boards to drive culture transformation and leadership development in past positions.
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
As a candidate for the Director of People & Culture, it's crucial to highlight your senior leadership experience in HR or people roles. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead culture transformation and strategic initiatives in complex organisations.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Values-led Leadership
Given NOC's focus on inclusive and values-led leadership, be ready to discuss how you've championed diversity and inclusion in your previous roles. Share concrete examples of how you've created exceptional employee experiences and fostered an inclusive workplace culture.
✨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 drive organisational change and engage with executive teams. Highlight your solutions-based thinking and innovative approaches to people strategy.
