At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR policy development and drive organisational change in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge's Human Resources Division.
- 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 shaping best-practice HR policies.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior HR experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 63606 - 67468 € per year.
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
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.
Permanent Hybrid Salary: £63,606 - £67,468 per annum
Key Responsibilities
- Responsible for the line management of around 4 Policy Consultants
- 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
How to Apply
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 employer: Spirehouse Recruitment
The University of Cambridge is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment where strategic HR leaders can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including 41 days of annual leave and an excellent pension scheme, the university fosters a culture of work-life balance and continuous improvement. This role not only allows for significant impact within a prestigious institution but also provides opportunities for professional growth and engagement with senior stakeholders in a complex, unionised setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR Policy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, especially those who have experience in complex organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University of Cambridge's HR policies and recent initiatives. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge and passion for their mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven organisational change or developed HR policies in your previous roles. We love hearing about real-life successes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for top talent like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR Policy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in HR policy development and leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with the specific needs of the University of Cambridge.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use concrete examples of how you've driven organisational change or improved HR practices in previous roles. This helps us see the impact you can make.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key messages stand out. This makes it easier for us to understand your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people and keeps everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spirehouse Recruitment
✨Know Your HR Policies Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in current HR policies and best practices, especially those relevant to the higher education sector. Familiarise yourself with the University of Cambridge's existing policies and think about how you can contribute to their development and improvement.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a candidate for a senior role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven organisational change in previous roles. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a tangible impact.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Building relationships is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively engaged with senior leaders, trade unions, and other stakeholders in the past. Think of strategies you’ve used to foster collaboration and resolve conflicts.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and knowledge of employment law. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making in hypothetical situations, particularly those involving complex people matters or negotiations.
