At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and drive transformation for a global tech leader.
- Company: Join Oxford Instruments, a pioneer in advanced technologies and innovation.
- Benefits: Influential leadership role with strong support and collaboration opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Shape culture and strategy while making a real impact on the future.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience in manufacturing or engineering environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Oxford Instruments, we don't just support innovation - we enable the breakthroughs that define it. We're looking for an exceptional Head of HR to lead the people agenda for our Andor business in Belfast. This is a rare opportunity to step into a high-impact, senior leadership role, where you'll help shape strategy, drive transformation, and influence the future of a globally recognised organisation.
Why this role? This isn't a traditional HR leadership role. You'll be:
- Sitting on the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to real business decisions
- Driving transformation and cultural change in a business with ambitious growth plans
- Working closely with an experienced and supportive HR Director, with strong peer collaboration across the Division
This is a role for someone who wants to make a visible, lasting impact.
What you'll be doing
- You'll take ownership of the full people agenda for the Belfast site - but, more importantly, you'll shape how the business succeeds through its people.
- Partner with senior leaders to align people strategy with business priorities
- Lead and develop a high-performing HR team
- Play a key role in SLT discussions, business planning and decision-making
- Drive organisational design, workforce planning and capability building
- Build a high-performance culture, empowering leaders to get the best from their teams
- Lead change and transformation initiatives that modernise how we work
- Act as a trusted advisor on complex ER and union matters
- Use data and insight to influence decisions and improve performance
- Champion an engaging, inclusive and high-trust employee experience
What we're looking for
We're looking for a confident, credible HR leader who is as comfortable in the boardroom as they are on the ground. You'll likely bring:
- Experience leading HR in a manufacturing, engineering, or industrial environment
- A track record of operating as a true strategic partner to senior leaders
- Strong expertise in organisational design, talent and workforce strategy
- Proven experience managing complex employee relations, ideally in a unionised setting
- A passion for developing people, driving change, and delivering results
Most importantly, you'll have the mindset to:
- Challenge, influence and contribute at senior level
- Build long-term, trusted relationships
- Drive meaningful transformation, not just maintain the status quo
What you'll get
- A visible, influential leadership role in a global organisation
- The opportunity to shape strategy and culture, not just HR processes
- Strong support and collaboration from an experienced HR leadership team
- The chance to work in a business that combines scientific innovation with real-world impact
- A platform to grow, develop and make your mark
About us
Oxford Instruments is a global leader in advanced technologies that enable scientists and engineers to deliver breakthroughs across healthcare, climate science, materials, and beyond. Our Imaging & Analysis Division, including Andor, is at the forefront of innovation - combining world class expertise, cutting edge products, and a collaborative global culture.
Ready to make an impact? If you're looking for a role where you can lead, influence, and transform at scale, this is your opportunity.
Head of HR employer: Oxford Instruments
At Oxford Instruments, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to drive innovation and transformation. As the Head of HR for our Andor business in Belfast, you'll not only have the opportunity to shape strategic initiatives but also benefit from strong support and collaboration within a high-performing HR team. With a commitment to employee growth and a focus on meaningful impact, this role offers a unique chance to influence the future of a globally recognised organisation while working in a vibrant city known for its rich history and thriving tech scene.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR
✨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!
✨Make Your Presence Known
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 Instruments!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Oxford Instruments.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR
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 Instruments. 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 Instruments 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 Instruments. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Oxford Instruments'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 Instruments
✨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 Instruments.
✨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 Instruments 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.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
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 Instruments and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
