At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the People function to shape culture and workforce strategy at UNICEF UK.
- Company: UNICEF UK, dedicated to improving children's lives globally.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a mission-driven team committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's rights while fostering an empowering workplace.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading people functions and driving organisational change.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
UNICEF UK is seeking an exceptional Director of People and Culture. This is a defining opportunity to shape our culture, strengthen our workforce strategy and ensure UNICEF UK remains an employer of choice for people committed to creating a better world for children.
As Director of People and Culture you will lead the People function with clarity, compassion and purpose, embedding diversity, equity & inclusion, wellbeing and high‑performance into every aspect of our work. You will provide strategic leadership across UNICEF UK, advising the Chief Executive, Executive Team and Board on all people‑related matters and shaping a People Plan that aligns with our mission and future direction. As an active member of the Strategic Leadership Group you will guide organisational change that strengthens effectiveness, sustainability and adaptability.
A core part of your role will be championing an inclusive, values‑driven culture where wellbeing is prioritised and colleagues feel empowered to perform at their best. You will lead strategic workforce planning to attract, develop and retain diverse talent, overseeing leadership development and succession planning to build capability and confidence at every level. You will also ensure performance and reward frameworks motivate excellence and support growth, and enhance the overall employee experience by strengthening engagement, ensuring compliance with employment law, overseeing our office environment and leading our approach to health, safety and wellbeing.
This is a critical appointment for UNICEF UK and we are seeking a senior people leader with a proven track record of leading and developing a multidisciplinary People function at strategic level. You will bring experience of partnering with Boards and Executive Teams as a trusted advisor, leading significant organisational and cultural change and shaping leadership capability. Your understanding of workplace transformation and the power of people data to drive performance will be underpinned by a deep commitment to embedding equity, diversity and inclusion. Combining strong commercial awareness with evidence‑based judgement, you will bring expertise in organisational design, workforce planning, employee relations and UK employment law. You will also appreciate the power and value of collaborative leadership, be willing to contribute beyond your functional remit.
If you are a mission‑driven leader who is motivated by children’s rights, inspired by UNICEF UK’s values and ready to help build a workplace where colleagues feel empowered, supported and united in creating a better world for every child, then we would love to hear from you.
Director of People and Culture employer: UNICEF
UNICEF UK is an outstanding employer that prioritises a values-driven culture, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront of our mission. As the Director of People and Culture, you will have the unique opportunity to shape our workforce strategy in a supportive environment that champions employee wellbeing and growth, ensuring that every team member feels empowered to contribute to our vital work for children. With a commitment to professional development and a collaborative leadership approach, UNICEF UK offers a fulfilling career path for those dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People and Culture
✨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 UNICEF!
✨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 UNICEF.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People and Culture
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 UNICEF. 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 UNICEF 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 UNICEF. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to UNICEF'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 UNICEF
✨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 UNICEF.
✨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 UNICEF 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 UNICEF and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
