At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and deliver innovative reward and benefits strategies to enhance employee value.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking university committed to modernising pay and benefits.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working available with great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee satisfaction and engagement through strategic reward management.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR, reward management, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We’re on an ambitious journey to modernise our approach to pay, reward and benefits, using better data, insight and sector benchmarking to strengthen our employee value proposition. This role will play a critical role in shaping and delivering that work.
If you enjoy combining strategy, insight and delivery—whether that’s developing reward interventions, managing benefits supplier relationships, analysing sector trends, or helping colleagues understand the value of their reward package—this could be the role for you.
Key Responsibilities- Work closely with the Deputy Director of HR (Reward and Recognition) to support the implementation and operational management of key reward, recognition and benefits schemes.
- Manage supplier relationships to ensure effective, high‑quality and value‑for‑money services.
- Lead the communication and promotion of the University’s reward and benefits offer, helping colleagues understand and engage with the employee value proposition.
- Ensure our approach remains competitive and aligned with organisational priorities.
The working pattern for this post is full time. We may consider a job share if there are two viable part‑time candidates, or a four‑day week (30 hours per week) for an exceptional individual candidate. While a need to be in Portsmouth a few days a week exists, hybrid working is available.
Location and InterviewsInterviews for shortlisted candidates are anticipated to be held at Mercantile House, Hampshire Terrace, Portsmouth PO1 2EG, on Thursday 18 June 2026.
Benefits- Competitive salary, including incremental progression within the pay band.
- Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays and an additional Christmas closure.
- Family‑friendly policies supporting flexible working.
- Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
- Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on‑campus schemes, use of the library and staff social activities.
- Discounted learning opportunities.
- Start‑up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via the Entrepreneurs in Residence programme.
New appointments will routinely be made to the entry salary point (minimum) for the advertised grade, whereupon the individual will, in addition to receiving annual cost‑of‑living‑related increases, progress through the pay range to the maximum for the grade within a reasonable timeframe. A higher starting salary or market supplement may be available for a truly exceptional candidate when circumstances fully justify a departure from our normal policy.
Right to WorkPrior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please note that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.
Equality, Diversity & InclusionWe are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect.
Application StatusPlease note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.
Locations
Reward & Benefits Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH
Join us at our vibrant Portsmouth campus, where we are dedicated to modernising our approach to pay, reward, and benefits. As a Reward & Benefits Manager, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values flexibility, professional development, and employee well-being, with generous leave entitlements and family-friendly policies. Our commitment to inclusivity and continuous improvement ensures that you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a competitive salary and excellent benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reward & Benefits Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees or alumni from the University to get insider info about the role and the culture. A friendly chat can give you a leg up and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in reward and benefits. We want to see that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about what’s happening in the sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the role. Highlight your experience in managing supplier relationships and delivering effective reward schemes—make it personal!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Reward & Benefits Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Reward & Benefits Manager. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious journey in modernising pay and benefits!
Showcase Your Insights:Don’t just list your skills—demonstrate your understanding of sector trends and data analysis. We’re looking for someone who can combine strategy and insight, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Highlight Communication Skills:Since this role involves promoting our reward and benefits offer, it’s crucial to showcase your communication skills. Tell us about times when you’ve effectively communicated complex information to colleagues or stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Reward & Benefits Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of data and analytics. Brush up on key metrics related to employee compensation and benefits. Be ready to discuss how you would use data to inform decisions and improve the employee value proposition.
✨Supplier Relationship Savvy
Since managing supplier relationships is crucial for this role, think about your past experiences with vendors. Prepare examples of how you've successfully negotiated or improved service quality with suppliers. This will show your potential employer that you can ensure high-quality, value-for-money services.
✨Communicate with Clarity
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice explaining complex reward schemes in simple terms. You might be asked how you would promote the University’s benefits offer, so have a clear strategy in mind that highlights engagement and understanding among colleagues.
✨Stay Competitive
Research current trends in reward and benefits within the sector. Be prepared to discuss how you would keep the organisation's approach competitive and aligned with its priorities. Showing that you’re proactive about industry benchmarks will impress your interviewers.
