At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful HR projects and drive organisational change within a vital government department.
- Company: Join Defra, a key player in protecting England's environment and rural economy.
- Benefits: Remote work flexibility, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace prioritising applications from disabled and neurodivergent candidates.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR in a dynamic environment focused on sustainability and transformation.
- Qualifications: Strong HR experience with proven project leadership and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
On behalf of Defra, we are looking for a Senior HR Business Partner x 4 (Inside IR35) for a contract up to end of March 2027 based remotely (with office attendance in any Nationwide Hub, as and if required).
In the Defra group, we deal with a vast range of issues that profoundly impact on people’s lives. We are responsible for England’s environment, our countryside and rural economy, the food and farming sectors and have lead responsibility for protection from a wide range of natural threats and hazards. We have developed a set of three strategic objectives covering our policy outcomes and corporate objectives. These objectives help us to deliver our ambitious vision to build our green and healthy future and provide a framework for all the important work we carry out.
- To pass on to the next generation a natural environment protected and enhanced for the future.
- To lead the world in food, farming, and fisheries with a sustainable model of food production.
- To be an outstanding organisation focused on making a difference, with world class delivery capability.
The role:
Defra is seeking an experienced Senior HR Business Partner to join its HR Project Delivery Team, providing strategic HR leadership and expertise across high-impact initiatives within the Defra group. The role will focus on leading and shaping business-critical HR projects, supporting organisational change, transformation and cross-cutting HR improvements. You will provide HR leadership, direction and structure, working closely with HR Business Partners, HR Expert Services teams, senior leaders and trade union partners to deliver effective people solutions.
You will take ownership of project delivery from initial scoping and design through to implementation, influencing strategic outcomes and ensuring successful transition into business-as-usual operations where required.
As a Senior HR Business Partner your main responsibilities will be to:
- Lead and shape HR projects and provide HR input into large-scale business transformation programmes.
- Provide strategic HR leadership, direction and advice across complex organisational initiatives.
- Lead projects from initial scoping and design through to implementation and delivery.
- Establish effective project governance, structures, plans and delivery timelines.
- Lead engagement with senior stakeholders, trade union partners and key business representatives.
- Build and lead cross-HR matrix project teams to deliver effective people solutions.
- Work closely with HR Business Partners and HR Expert Services teams to drive project outcomes.
- Influence and challenge senior stakeholders to achieve successful project delivery.
- Identify, assess and manage project risks, issues and dependencies.
- Drive collaboration and joined-up delivery across different teams and functions.
- Support organisational change, HR transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Oversee project closure and ensure effective transition into business-as-usual operations.
Essential:
- Strong HR generalist experience, with the ability to operate strategically and provide HR leadership.
- Proven experience leading and delivering HR projects, ideally within change or transformation environments.
- Experience managing projects from initial scoping and design through to implementation.
- Ability to lead cross-functional or matrix project teams.
- Proven experience influencing, challenging and managing senior stakeholders.
- Experience engaging with trade unions and key organisational partners.
- Ability to establish effective project structures, governance and delivery plans.
- Strong communication, stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities, assess risks and deliver at pace.
Desirable:
- Chartered membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
- CIPD Level 5 Intermediate Diploma or Level 7 Advanced Diploma in HR, or equivalent qualification.
- Experience working within a government or wider public sector HR environment.
- Experience leading large-scale organisational change and business transformation programmes.
- Experience providing strategic HR advice and solutions to senior leadership teams.
Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.
Disability Confident
As a Disability Confident employer, Defra encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent candidates. Applications from candidates who identify as having a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role will be prioritised for review. Where application volumes are high, additional role-specific and desirable criteria may be applied as part of the shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.
In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following: this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different.
Senior HR Business Partner x 4 employer: Public Sector Resourcing
Homes England is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the National Housing Bank initiative aimed at enhancing housing delivery across England. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative work culture, team members are encouraged to grow their skills in real estate finance while making a meaningful impact in the community. The hybrid working model provides flexibility, allowing for a balanced work-life integration in a supportive environment dedicated to innovation and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior HR Business Partner x 4
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Public Sector Resourcing and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior HR Business Partner x 4
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Public Sector Resourcing. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Public Sector Resourcing
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Public Sector Resourcing, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Public Sector Resourcing uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Public Sector Resourcing.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Public Sector Resourcing.
