Human Resources Manager in Oxford

The Human Resources Manager for Oxford Playhouse is responsible for driving best practice in recruitment, wellbeing, training and development, and employee relations, fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. The HR Manager will oversee and develop process, ensuring the organisation remains legally compliant, people-focused, and aligned with its values and strategic objectives. Oxford Playhouse is a registered charity, with a permanent team of around 40, a team of casual employees and over 100 volunteers.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• HR Strategy and Leadership: Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with Oxford Playhouse strategy and values. Advise the Operations Director and Senior Management Team on all people matters, contributing to strategic decision-making. Lead the continuous improvement of HR processes, systems, and policies to enhance organisational effectiveness. Ensure compliance with UK employment law, equality legislation, & GDPR. Lead on Safeguarding policies and procedures for the organisation. In line with internal process, review, update and publish HR policies and procedures.
• Employee Relations: Act as the first point of contact for staff and managers on HR policies, performance, conduct, grievance, and wellbeing issues. Support line managers in handling employee relations matters, providing guidance and coaching where necessary. Lead or support investigations, disciplinary and grievance procedures, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies. Foster a positive, open, and inclusive workplace culture.
• Recruitment and Onboarding: Manage the end-to-end recruitment process, from job description creation to induction. Work with department heads to define roles and attract diverse candidates. Oversee job advertising, shortlisting, interviews, and appointment processes. Prepare employment contracts and manage onboarding, right-to-work checks, DBS, and induction programmes. Collaborate with external recruitment partners and agencies as needed.
• Performance and Development: Oversee the appraisal system, ensuring all staff receive timely and constructive feedback. Identify organisational training needs and develop an annual professional development plan. Coordinate training sessions, workshops, and wellbeing initiatives. Support career development and succession planning initiatives.
• Wellbeing: Lead on initiatives promoting staff wellbeing and mental health, building on existing Playhouse programmes. Be the main contact for OP’s Employee Assistance Programme and monitor uptake and effectiveness.
• Equity, Diversity & Inclusion: Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in recruitment, policy, and culture. Be a member of the Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and HR Taskforce.
• HR Administration and Compliance: Maintain accurate and confidential HR records and systems. Oversee day to day HR administrative tasks. Ensure all HR documentation, including contracts, policies, and procedures, are up to date and compliant. Produce monthly and annual HR reports on key metrics (turnover, absence, training activity). Liaise with Finance department to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Skills and Attributes: CIPD Level 5 qualification (or equivalent experience). Minimum 3 years’ HR experience in a managerial role. In-depth knowledge of UK employment law, GDPR, and HR best practice. Proven experience in recruitment, performance management, and employee relations. Excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills. Strong admin and problem-solving abilities. Excellent attention to detail. Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and staff wellbeing. Ability to work independently, with discretion and emotional intelligence. An interest in the performing arts and cultural sector.

Desirable Skills and Experience: Experience working in an arts, charity, or not-for-profit organisation. Experience in payroll processes and working with trade unions. Familiarity with Sage Payroll, Breathe HR or similar systems.