At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the people and culture strategy for a pioneering archaeology charity.
- Company: Join Oxford Archaeology, a leader in connecting people with their shared past.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across the UK and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Shape the future of an impactful organisation and drive meaningful change.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 and experience in leading organisational change are essential.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Join the Executive Team of a growing archaeology charity and develop a modern people function, shaping the culture and capability behind some of the UK's most significant archaeological discoveries. Oxford Archaeology (OA) is one of the UK's leading archaeological practices, and a charity which has been connecting people with their shared past for more than 50 years. From single house extensions to national infrastructure projects such as HS2, the team of almost 500 archaeologists, scientists and specialists work across sites throughout the UK from their offices in Oxford, Cambridge and Lancaster, uncovering, preserving and sharing what lies beneath the ground for the benefit of everyone.
This is a newly created role at a genuinely pivotal moment for OA. As the organisation has grown in scale, reach and impact, its people, culture and organisational systems now need to be strengthened to match. You'll join the Executive Team, with a mandate to build the people function OA needs for its next decade of growth.
As Director of People and Culture, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership on people, culture and organisational development, working closely with the Executive Team, Board of Trustees and HR team
- Develop and deliver a People and Culture Strategy that supports OA's charitable mission, commercial ambitions and long-term strategy
- Lead organisational change and transformation, strengthening structures, systems and governance across a complex, growing organisation
- Build a distinctive employer value proposition and an inclusive, high-performing culture that attracts, engages and retains talented people
- Act as OA's Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Lead and develop the HR and Learning & Development teams
We're seeking an experienced, values-led senior HR leader with a track record of leading organisational change and building people strategies within complex, growing organisations. CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent) and Designated Safeguarding Lead experience are essential, alongside the credibility to influence at executive and board level and the pragmatism to build strong foundations from the ground up.
Please note: the majority of the HR and L&D team work from the Oxford office. Regular travel, as well as some out of hours attendance at events will be required, through the UK. Oxford Archaeology has three main bases: Oxford, Cambridge and Lancaster. The organisation offers hybrid working, with a minimum of 2 days per week within one of OA’s offices.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
Director of People and Culture in Lancaster employer: Oxford Archaeology
As a Community Engagement and Social Value Officer with us, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a real difference in the communities of Oxford, Cambridge, or Lancaster. We offer a supportive work culture that values creativity and collaboration, alongside competitive benefits such as generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development. Join us to engage diverse communities through innovative archaeological projects while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working and a commitment to inclusion and diversity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People and Culture in Lancaster
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
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Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Oxford Archaeology!
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We think you need these skills to ace Director of People and Culture in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Oxford Archaeology. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Oxford Archaeology and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Oxford Archaeology. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Oxford Archaeology's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Archaeology
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Oxford Archaeology.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Oxford Archaeology will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
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Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Oxford Archaeology and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
