At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the People strategy to enhance organisational capability and employee experience.
- Company: Join a pioneering institute dedicated to improving human health and scientific discovery.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, wellbeing programmes, and a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of science while making a real impact on people's lives.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience and strategic partnership with executive teams.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life-changing science to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges. As we continue to evolve the Institute, we are seeking a Human Resources Director to lead the next phase of our People strategy, partnering with the Chief Operating Officer, Executive Senior Leadership Team and Wellcome to ensure our people strategy enables the Institute to deliver its ambitious scientific mission.
This is a strategic leadership role responsible for creating a modern, insight-led People function that develops organisational capability, enables leaders to succeed and delivers an outstanding employee experience. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will influence organisational direction, workforce planning, culture and leadership across the Institute while ensuring alignment with Wellcome where appropriate.
About the role
- Lead the development and delivery of the Institute's People Strategy.
- Act as a trusted strategic adviser to the Executive Senior Leadership Team on workforce, organisational effectiveness and culture.
- Lead and develop a high-performing, multi-disciplinary People function.
- Shape workforce planning, organisational capability and succession strategies that support future scientific priorities.
- Drive organisational culture, leadership capability and employee experience.
- Use data, evidence and insight to inform strategic decision making and organisational performance.
About you
We're looking for an experienced HR leader who has:
- Successfully led a People function within a complex organisation.
- Experience partnering with executive leadership teams to shape organisational strategy.
- A track record of leading organisational change and transformation.
- Strong expertise in workforce planning, organisational development and talent strategy.
- Outstanding leadership, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
- The ability to combine strategic thinking with practical delivery and evidence-based decision making.
Application Process
Please submit an up-to-date CV with a supporting suitability statement. Your suitability statement should be no more than 2 pages and explain, with examples, how your experience meets the key criteria set out in the suitability statement guidance document.
Closing date for applications: 9th August
Expected Recruitment Process: The selection process is expected to comprise three stages:
- Leadership Panel Interview
- Interview with Chief Operating Officer
- Interview with Senior Institute Leaders
Following a successful appointment, the successful candidate will be invited to meet members of the Institute's Non-Executive Directors as part of their onboarding and introduction to the organisation. This is an introductory meeting and does not form part of the selection process.
Hybrid Working at Wellcome Sanger: We recognise that there are many benefits to Hybrid Working; including an improved work-life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We have a supportive culture with the following staff networks: LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability, Gender Equity and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness. The networks are also a place for allies to provide support to others. We believe people do their best work when they can be their authentic selves. That’s why we’re committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive.
Our Benefits: We are proud to deliver an awarding campus-wide employee wellbeing strategy and programme. The importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and the commitment to reduce work-related stress is strongly acknowledged and recognised at Sanger Institute. Sanger Institute became a signatory of the International Technician Commitment initiative in March 2018. The Technician Commitment aims to empower and ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines.
Human Resources Director employer: Sanger Institute
At Wellcome Sanger Institute, we are dedicated to improving human health and advancing scientific research in a supportive and mission-driven environment. As an Alliance Manager, you will benefit from a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while engaging in meaningful collaborations with industry partners. Our commitment to diversity, employee wellbeing, and professional growth ensures that you can thrive and make a significant impact in the field of life sciences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Director
✨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 Sanger Institute!
✨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 Sanger Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Human Resources Director
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 Sanger Institute. 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 Sanger Institute 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 Sanger Institute. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Sanger Institute'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 Sanger Institute
✨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 Sanger Institute.
✨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 Sanger Institute 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 Sanger Institute and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
