At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR policy development and drive organisational change in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge and shape its HR policies.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, excellent pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic higher education sector.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a complex organisation while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Extensive HR experience, strong leadership, and knowledge of employment law required.
The predicted salary is between 63606 - 67468 £ per year.
About the job
Permanent Hybrid (minimum 2 days a week in the office)
Salary: £63,606 - £67,468 per annum
Organisation: University of Cambridge
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.
The Role
- Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HR policies, procedures, and frameworks that support organisational objectives and promote best practice.
- Provide expert guidance on employment legislation, employee relations, governance, and strategic people initiatives.
- 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.
About You
- 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.
Desirable
- 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.
Spirehouse Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and promotes a diverse and inclusive recruitment process.
Head of HR Policy in Peterborough 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 a commitment to employee growth, the university provides extensive benefits including 41 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and flexible working arrangements that promote a healthy work/life balance. This role not only allows for impactful contributions to HR policy but also fosters professional development within a prestigious institution dedicated to excellence and inclusivity.
Contact Details:
Spirehouse Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR Policy in Peterborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, especially those who have experience in complex organisations. They might have insider info on opportunities or even refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's culture and recent changes in HR policies. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making an impact at the University of Cambridge.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led HR initiatives or managed teams. This will demonstrate your leadership capabilities and strategic thinking.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR Policy in Peterborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of HR Policy role. Highlight your experience in strategic HR policy development and your ability to drive organisational change, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see how you've successfully managed and developed teams in the past. Share specific examples that demonstrate your leadership style and how you've influenced positive outcomes in complex environments.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your expertise in employment law and HR governance, making it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that your application is processed correctly and gives you the best chance of being considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spirehouse Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your HR Policies Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in current HR policies and best practices. Familiarise yourself with the University of Cambridge's specific policies and any recent changes in employment law that may affect them. This will show your expertise and readiness to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing HR teams and driving organisational change. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led policy development initiatives and built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Management
Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build effective relationships with senior leaders and trade unions. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your communication and influencing skills, as these will be crucial in this role.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Be prepared to discuss how you’ve used qualitative and quantitative data to inform HR decisions in the past. Highlight any specific tools or methodologies you’ve employed to analyse data and support evidence-based recommendations.
