Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dynamic HR team to deliver innovative HR services.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge, a globally renowned institution.
- Benefits: Collaborative environment, professional development, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping HR strategies for a diverse workforce.
- Qualifications: Exceptional leadership skills and deep understanding of HR practices required.
- Other info: Temporary cover role with a vibrant community of researchers and industry partners.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an accomplished HR leader with a proven track record in people management, driving high-performing teams, and delivering innovative, high-quality HR services? The Department of Engineering, at the University of Cambridge, is seeking a strategic and dynamic Senior HR Business Partner to join our dedicated HR team.
About the Role:
As Senior HR Business Partner, you will be part of the central HR Division, but will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering strategic and operational HR services across the Department of Engineering, supporting over 900 employees and 250 visitors. Reporting to the Lead HR Business Partner for the School of Technology, you will work closely with the Head of the Department of Engineering, managing a team who deliver a comprehensive portfolio of services, including:
- HR business partnering
- Workforce planning
- Resourcing
- Pay and reward
- Supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
Your leadership will ensure Departmental HR strategies are aligned with the Department\’s academic vision, together with the School of Technology and University\’s People Strategies, while addressing the unique challenges of a diverse workforce.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate, and develop your team to ensure a high-performing, customer-focused approach to service delivery.
- Develop and implement HR and workforce plans that meet the strategic needs of the Department, School and University
- Provide expert advice and innovative solutions to senior stakeholders on complex HR issues, including case management, policy development, and organisational change.
- Partner with senior leaders to deliver transformational HR initiatives that foster an inclusive and engaged workforce.
What You\’ll Bring
We are looking for an HR professional with:
- Exceptional leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams.
- A deep understanding of HR practices, including advising on employment law, managing complex cases, and driving organisational change.
- A proven track record of building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, influencing decision-making, and leading on high-profile HR initiatives.
- A commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and delivering people-focused solutions.
- Familiarity with working in complex matrix organisations
What we offer
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of a globally renowned University while working at the forefront of academic excellence. You\’ll enjoy:
- A collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Access to a vibrant community of leading researchers and industry partners.
Be part of a team making a real impact in one of the world\’s leading academic and research institutions.
Temporary cover: This post is fixed-term for 1 years or the return of the post holder, whichever is the earlier.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.
Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Please upload a CV and a supporting statement outlining how you meet the criteria for the role and your motivations for applying.
Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be directed to: Tracy Brooks at
If you have any queries regarding the application process please email:
Closing date for applications: Sunday 21st September
Interview Date: Tuesday 7th October
Please quote reference AH47170 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key information
Department/location
Human Resources Division
Salary
£47,389-£59,966
Reference
AH47170
Category
Academic-related
Date published
5 September 2025
Closing date
21 September 2025
Senior HR Business Partner Temporary Cover employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior HR Business Partner Temporary Cover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, especially those at the University of Cambridge. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the role that you won't find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Department of Engineering's current HR initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand their unique challenges and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've motivated teams and driven change in previous roles. We want to hear about your impact and how you can bring that to our team.
✨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, it shows us you’re serious about joining our fantastic HR team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior HR Business Partner Temporary Cover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Senior HR Business Partner. Highlight your leadership experience and any specific HR initiatives you've led that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how your skills and experiences meet the criteria outlined in the job description. Be specific about your motivations for applying and how you can contribute to our mission at the University of Cambridge.
Showcase Your People Management Skills: Since this role is all about leading high-performing teams, make sure to showcase your people management skills. Share examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in the past, and how you plan to do the same with us at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it makes it easier for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your HR practices, especially around employment law and organisational change. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex HR issues or implemented innovative solutions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in leading and developing high-performing teams. Think of instances where you've motivated your team or influenced senior stakeholders, and be ready to share how you foster an inclusive workplace.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand the Department of Engineering's academic vision and how it aligns with the University’s People Strategies. Be prepared to discuss how your HR strategies can support their goals and address the unique challenges of a diverse workforce.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the department. Inquire about their current HR initiatives or challenges they face, which will demonstrate your strategic thinking and genuine interest in contributing to their success.
