At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR policy development and drive organisational change at a prestigious university.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge, a leader in education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, excellent pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive team committed to excellence.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a complex and evolving organisation.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior HR experience and strong leadership skills required.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced senior HR professional to join the Human Resources Division as Head of HR Policy at the University of Cambridge. This strategic leadership role will be responsible for shaping and delivering best-practice HR policy across a complex and highly collaborative organisation. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving organisational change, leading policy development initiatives, and building strong relationships with senior stakeholders and recognised trade unions.
As Head of HR Policy, you will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HR policies, procedures, and frameworks that support organisational objectives and promote best practice. Working closely with senior leaders and key stakeholders, you will provide expert guidance on employment legislation, employee relations, governance, and strategic people initiatives. You will also lead and develop a professional HR team, ensuring high standards of service delivery and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the strategic development and implementation of HR policies, procedures, and frameworks
- Provide expert advice on employment law, HR governance, and complex people matters
- Drive organisational and cultural change initiatives across the institution
- Build and maintain effective relationships with senior leaders, trade unions, and key stakeholders
- Lead consultation and negotiation activity relating to policy and organisational change
- Manage and develop a high-performing HR team
- Analyse qualitative and quantitative data to support evidence-based decision making
- Produce high-quality reports, recommendations, and presentations for senior stakeholders
- Extensive senior HR experience in complex, unionised organisations
- Proven success delivering strategic HR policies, projects, and organisational change
- Strong leadership experience managing and developing professional teams
- In-depth knowledge of employment law, HR best practice, and union negotiations
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, influencing, and problem-solving skills
- Confident engaging with senior leaders and providing constructive challenge
- Knowledge and understanding of the higher education sector, including its regulatory, employment, and cultural environment
This is an excellent opportunity for a strategic HR leader to make a significant impact within a complex and evolving organisation.
Benefits- 41 days annual leave inclusive of public holidays
- Excellent Pension - You will automatically be enrolled to become a member of USS (Universities Superannuation Scheme) – a hybrid pension scheme.
- The University salary structure includes automatic service-related pay progression in many of its grades and an annual cost of living increase
- Financial, health and wellbeing and travel benefits
- Development and learning opportunities
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Flexible working opportunities and commitment to work/life balance
Please apply online or contact Jack Sharpe or Abbie Carr at Spirehouse for a confidential discussion. Spirehouse Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and promotes a diverse and inclusive recruitment process.
Head of HR Policy in Cambridge employer: Spirehouse Recruitment Limited
The University of Cambridge is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment where strategic HR leaders can thrive. With generous benefits such as 41 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and a strong commitment to employee development and work-life balance, this role provides a unique opportunity to influence organisational change within a prestigious institution. Join a team that values diversity, fosters professional growth, and prioritises the well-being of its staff.
Contact Detail:
Spirehouse Recruitment Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR Policy in Cambridge
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the HR field! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in shaping HR policies and driving organisational change. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex situations and built strong stakeholder relationships.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before interviews! Research the University of Cambridge’s HR practices and think about how your skills align with their needs. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their strategic goals and improve their HR frameworks.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making an impact in the HR space.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR Policy in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in HR policy and leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with the role at the University of Cambridge, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your previous roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive organisational change and develop HR policies. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your impact – numbers speak volumes!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure your passion for HR shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spirehouse Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your HR Policies Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the current HR policies and practices at the University of Cambridge. Familiarise yourself with their strategic objectives and how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to lead policy development.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Given the importance of building relationships with senior leaders and trade unions, think about past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex stakeholder dynamics. Prepare specific examples that highlight your communication and negotiation skills, as these will be crucial in this role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a candidate for a senior position, it's essential to convey your leadership philosophy. Be ready to discuss how you've developed and managed high-performing teams in the past. Share insights on how you foster collaboration and drive organisational change, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making
The role requires analysing qualitative and quantitative data to support decisions. Prepare to discuss how you've used data in previous roles to inform HR policies or initiatives. Bring examples of reports or presentations you've created that led to successful outcomes, showcasing your analytical skills.
