At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative learning and development initiatives to empower students and staff.
- Company: Dynamic student-focused organisation at the University of Reading.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, 35 days annual leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a vibrant campus environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on organisational culture and student experience.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 and significant HR/OD/L&D experience required.
The predicted salary is between 21087 - 21087 £ per year.
A role where you can innovate and make a real impact!
About Reading Students’ Union
We are a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to empowering students and enhancing their university experience. Our vision is to be a place for everyone, we inspire and empower students to change the world.
The Role:
Are you passionate about organisational development? Do you thrive on innovation and impact? We’re looking for an Organisational Development specialist who will shape our continuous learning culture and align L&D initiatives with organisational goals. You’ll be part of our small but very busy team, where no two days are the same. This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll lead the charge in supporting a diverse range of teams, including our commercial venues team, nursery staff, career staff, student-staff, interns and apprentices, ensuring tailored L&D solutions.
What You'll do:
- Strategic Planning & Development
- Develop and implement a comprehensive L&D strategy aligned with organisational objectives.
- Support organisational development initiatives and contribute to job design to ensure roles align with business needs and employee growth.
- Develop the employer brand through learning initiatives and explore relevant accreditations (e.g., Investors in People, Great Place to Work) to enhance our reputation.
- Learning Program Design & Delivery
- Conduct Training Needs Analysis to identify skills gaps and future development requirements.
- Personally design and deliver training sessions, workshops, and learning interventions to meet organisational needs.
- Design and deliver blended learning programs: e-learning, workshops, webinars, on-the-job training.
- Develop and deliver management and leadership development programmes to build strong future leaders.
- Develop and deliver new starter induction programs and monitor probation periods to ensure the right support and development is in place during those crucial first months.
- Work with and engage external training providers as needed.
- Manage logistics of training sessions.
- Performance & Talent Management
- Develop and manage performance appraisals, Personal Development Plans (PDPs), and individual training plans.
- Provide performance coaching to managers and employees to enhance capability and drive high performance.
- Facilitate talent development programs, including apprenticeship schemes, mentoring, succession planning and management training.
- Budget & Compliance
- Approve training requests and book external training within budget constraints.
- Manage the L&D budget in collaboration with the People Director; evaluate and engage third-party providers ensuring ROI and compliance.
- Ensure mandatory training compliance, including health & safety regulations.
- Change Management & Engagement
- Support our change management initiatives by designing and delivering learning interventions that enable smooth transitions and adoption of new processes.
- Lead internal communications and consultations related to learning and development, including staff surveys, feedback sessions, and engagement activities.
About You
Essential
- CIPD Level 5.
- Significant experience as an HR Manager/OD/L&D specialist.
- You think strategically. Organised, adaptable, and ready to make things happen.
- You're an innovator.
- Excellent communicator.
- Project management skills.
- Ability to coach and mentor.
- You LOVE learning & development and organisational development.
- Evidence of CPD.
- Proven experience in:
- Designing and delivering training programs (including management and leadership development).
- Developing induction programs and supporting probation processes.
- Performance management frameworks (training needs analysis, appraisals, PDPs, coaching, succession planning).
- Leading change management initiatives and employee engagement activities.
- Working with LMS platforms and digital learning tools.
- Working with external training providers.
- Creating processes—not just following them—driving innovation and efficiency.
Desirable
- Coaching qualification.
- CIPD Level 7.
- Degree in Human Resources.
- HR/L&D Consultancy experience.
- Relevant experience in small to medium sized organisations.
- Exposure to employer accreditation processes.
Why Join Us?
- Inclusive and supportive team culture.
- Flexible working options.
- 35 days annual leave including Christmas and Easter closure days.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Unique working environment in the heart of a vibrant Student’s Union, set on a stunning, green campus.
Ready to make our People Strategy a reality? Apply today! Committed to equality, celebrating diversity, and embedding sustainability—building an inclusive workplace and a brighter future for all.
Part-time HR Manager (Organisational Development) in Reading employer: Reading Students' Union
Reading Students’ Union is an exceptional employer that champions a dynamic and inclusive work culture, offering flexible working options and a supportive team environment. With a strong focus on professional development and a commitment to empowering students, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful organisational change on a vibrant university campus.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Part-time HR Manager (Organisational Development) in Reading
✨Get Involved in Local HR Events
Check out local HR networking events or workshops in your area. These are great opportunities to meet industry professionals, learn about the latest trends in human resources, and potentially get leads on part-time roles like the one at Reading Students' Union.
✨Join HR Communities Online
Platforms like SHRM Connect or HR-specific LinkedIn groups are gold mines for job leads and industry discussions. Engaging in conversations can put your name out there and might just catch the eye of someone from Reading Students' Union looking for a part-time star!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're studying or have recently graduated, don’t forget about your university's career services. They often have contacts in the HR world that can help you score a part-time gig, plus you can access exclusive job boards!
✨Direct Applications Through Our Website
When you find the part-time role you're excited about, apply directly through our website. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps us streamline the hiring process. Make your application stand out with a tailored approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Part-time HR Manager (Organisational Development) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your People Skills:In human resources, it’s all about connecting with people. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience in recruitment, employee relations, or conflict resolution. If you’ve got any certifications in HR or related fields, don’t forget to flaunt them!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Shine Bright:When applying for a part-time HR role at Reading Students' Union, your cover letter should reflect your motivation and enthusiasm for the position. Discuss your passion for people management and how you can contribute to their team, even on a part-time basis.
Demonstrate Flexibility and Availability:Since it's a part-time role, be clear in your application about your availability. HR often requires a balance of flexibility and commitment, so outline any existing commitments and how you plan to manage your time effectively.
Include Real-Life Examples:When describing your experience, use specific examples that illustrate your competency in HR tasks. Whether it’s handling employee onboarding or managing records, these anecdotes can make your application stand out to Reading Students' Union.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Students' Union
✨Know Your HR Basics Inside Out
As we're diving into a part-time HR role, let’s brush up on key HR concepts like recruitment processes, employment law, and employee engagement strategies. Prepare to explain how you've handled various HR scenarios in the past or how you'd approach them in the future – this shows you can hit the ground running!
✨Get Creative with Your HR Portfolio
Bring along a portfolio showcasing your HR projects, like recruitment plans or engagement activities you've designed. This isn't just for show; it helps us illustrate our hands-on experience and creativity, making us stand out to Reading Students' Union. Plus, it’s a tangible way to discuss our achievements!
✨Brush Up on Behavioural Interview Techniques
Expect a mix of traditional and behavioural interview questions. Prepare STAR answers (Situation, Task, Action, Result) on how you've resolved conflicts or improved team dynamics. Since HR is all about people, our ability to communicate effectively will be under the spotlight.
✨Show Flexibility and Enthusiasm
In a part-time HR role, demonstrating a flexible approach to working hours and responsibilities can make us more appealing to Reading Students' Union. Expressing our eagerness to learn and contribute to the team will demonstrate that we're not just filling a position, but genuinely excited to be part of their journey!
