At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic people initiatives and drive organisational transformation at UWS.
- Company: Join a socially driven university with a global impact and diverse community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape future leaders.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to inclusivity and high performance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a top-ranked university focused on social inclusion.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience in complex environments and strong team development skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
University of the West of Scotland (UWS), a large, socially driven multi-campus institution with origins dating back to 1897, is seeking an exceptional Director of People & Wellbeing to provide strategic people leadership at a pivotal moment in the University's journey. With five campuses across Scotland and London, over 24,000 students drawn from more than 100 nationalities, a workforce of approximately 1,500 colleagues, and a bold Strategy 2030 focused on transforming communities through research and education, UWS is an anchor institution with real national and global reach.
The University is seeking a proven people leader to join the senior team of the Vice-Principal (People & Student Wellbeing) and take strategic ownership of its people, organisational development, and wellbeing agenda. Reporting to the Vice-Principal and acting as a trusted adviser to the Vice-Chancellor's Executive, you will set the strategic direction for the People & Wellbeing Strategy, drive organisational transformation, champion employee voice and constructive partnership with recognised trade unions, and embed a culture of inclusivity, belonging, and high performance across the institution.
You will lead a professional community of approximately 80 colleagues spanning People Services, Organisational Development, Leadership Development, Employee Relations, Reward and Wellbeing. We are seeking an experienced leader with a proven track record of senior HR and organisational development leadership in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. You will bring the strategic acumen to shape large-scale approaches to culture, workforce capability, and wellbeing, alongside the personal leadership qualities to inspire and develop high-performing teams.
As comfortable advising Court committees and navigating complex employee relations as you are partnering with academic and professional colleagues across five campuses, you will bring the authority, empathy, and collegiate instinct that this role demands. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a University ranked 2nd in Scotland and 26th in the world for reducing inequalities, and recognised as Scottish University of the Year for Social Inclusion.
Director of People Design and Services in Paisley employer: University of the West of Scotland
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and employee wellbeing, making it a fantastic place for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in higher education. With a strong focus on strategic leadership and organisational development, UWS offers a collaborative work culture across its five campuses, fostering growth opportunities for its staff while being recognised for its commitment to social inclusion and community transformation. Join us at this pivotal moment in our journey as we shape the future of education and support over 24,000 diverse students from around the globe.
Contact Detail:
University of the West of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People Design and Services in Paisley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have insights into UWS. A friendly chat can open doors and give you the inside scoop on what they're really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into UWS's Strategy 2030. Show us that you understand their mission and values, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! We want to hear about your past experiences in a way that highlights your leadership style and achievements. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep it structured and impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows us that you’re enthusiastic about the role and appreciate the opportunity to connect.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People Design and Services in Paisley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of People Design and Services role. Highlight your experience in strategic people leadership and organisational development, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially in areas like employee wellbeing and inclusivity.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead, so don’t be afraid to share your leadership style and values that align with UWS’s mission.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates we’re considering!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of the West of Scotland
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into UWS's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their Strategy 2030 and how it aligns with your vision for people and wellbeing. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role but are genuinely invested in the university's future.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how it has shaped your previous teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven organisational transformation and fostered inclusivity. This is your chance to demonstrate your strategic acumen and personal leadership qualities.
✨Engage with Their Challenges
Think about the unique challenges UWS might face in a multi-campus environment. Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of these complexities, especially around employee relations and trade union partnerships. This will highlight your ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with various stakeholders, be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated across different teams in the past. Share examples that illustrate your ability to build constructive partnerships and champion employee voice, which is crucial for this position.
