At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop People Partnering and Operations for a vibrant university.
- Company: Join the University of Gloucestershire, a modern institution with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a values-led team committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in HR leadership while supporting over 11,000 students.
- Qualifications: Extensive HR leadership experience and strong people management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 53000 - 62000 £ per year.
Grade 9 | 0.6 FTE (22.2 hours per week) | 12-month fixed-term contract
Your normal place of work will be Pittville Campus, although you may be required to work across University sites and in line with the University’s agile working arrangements.
We are looking for an experienced, collaborative and value-led HR leader to join us as our Head of People Partnering and Operations. Reporting to the Director of People, this is a key leadership role within the People Function, with responsibility for leading our People Partnering service and providing oversight of People Operations. You will directly manage our 3 People Partners who have responsibility for the People Advisors and Administrators and the Operations Partner, helping to ensure a high-quality, inclusive and professional service across the University. This is a 12-month fixed-term opportunity FTE, ideal for someone who combines strategic thinking with strong operational judgement and who enjoys leading through others to deliver high-quality people outcomes.
About the University of Gloucestershire:
The University of Gloucestershire is a vibrant, modern institution spanning campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester, serving over 11,000 students with over 900 dedicated staff. Building on a proud heritage dating back to 1847, the University combines academic excellence with a strong focus on innovation, community partnership and practical, real-world learning. We are a values-led institution, with values of Integrity, Nurture, Ambition, Curiosity and Sustainability.
About the team:
Our People Function supports the University through a partnering and operational model that brings together strategic people support, advisory expertise, operational delivery, data and continuous improvement. You will join a values-led, collaborative team committed to delivering an inclusive, professional and high-quality service across the University.
What you will be doing:
- Lead and develop our People Partnering and Operations activities, ensuring consistency, quality and a positive customer experience across the University.
- Act as the senior escalation point for complex employee relations matters, organisational change and wider people risk.
- Lead key strategic People projects and help translate our People Strategy and priorities into practical delivery.
- Support the Director of People with trade union relationships, consultation and engagement.
- Work with senior leaders and managers across the University to provide credible, pragmatic and solution-focused people leadership.
- Ensure effective alignment between partnering, operations, people data, policy and service improvement.
What we are looking for:
- Substantial senior HR / People leadership experience in a complex organisation.
- Strong experience of leading HR Business Partnering / People Partnering and/or People Operations services.
- A track record of managing complex employee relations matters and supporting organisational change.
- The confidence to work credibly with senior stakeholders and trade union representatives.
- The ability to lead through others, build capability and drive service improvement.
- A strong understanding of employment law, people risk and inclusive practice.
- Experience of using people data and insight to shape decisions and improve services.
Key Dates:
- Closing Date: 21st June 2026
- Shortlisting Date: 22nd June 2026
- Interview Dates: 25th & 26th June 2026
To avoid disappointment please apply early, should we find a suitable candidate we will close the advert. The University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive staff community and welcomes applications from currently under-represented sections of our workforce.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, guaranteeing an interview to everyone who meets the definition of disability set out in the Equality Act 2010 and the essential criteria contained within the person specification.
Head of People Partnering & Operations employer: University of Gloucestershire
The University of Gloucestershire is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional development. With a strong commitment to values such as Integrity, Nurture, and Sustainability, employees benefit from a supportive environment that encourages growth and innovation, all while working in the picturesque settings of Cheltenham and Gloucester. This role not only provides the opportunity to lead impactful HR initiatives but also to contribute to a community-focused institution dedicated to real-world learning and diversity.
Contact Details:
University of Gloucestershire Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of People Partnering & Operations
✨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 University of Gloucestershire!
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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.
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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 University of Gloucestershire.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of People Partnering & Operations
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 University of Gloucestershire. 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 University of Gloucestershire 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 University of Gloucestershire. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to University of Gloucestershire'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 University of Gloucestershire
✨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 University of Gloucestershire.
✨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 University of Gloucestershire 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 University of Gloucestershire and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
