At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the People Strategy and shape an exceptional workplace culture.
- Company: Join USDAW, one of the UK's largest trade unions with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 34-hour work week, flexible patterns, generous leave, and excellent pension.
- Other info: Be part of a values-led organisation where people genuinely matter.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a newly created role with strategic influence.
- Qualifications: Significant HR leadership experience and a passion for developing teams.
Lead the People Strategy. Shape the Culture. Leave Your Legacy. Are you an inspiring HR leader looking for an opportunity where you can genuinely make your mark? USDAW is one of the UK's largest trade unions, employing circa 330 colleagues across the country. We're proud of our supportive culture, our values and our commitment to improving working lives.
We're now looking for an exceptional Head of HR to lead the next chapter of our people journey.
- Newly created role with genuine strategic influence
- Opportunity to shape and build the HR function
- 34-hour working week
- Flexible working patterns
- Excellent pension
- Generous annual leave
- Free parking
- Supportive Executive leadership
- Values-led organisation where people genuinely matter
About the role: This is a newly created role with real strategic influence. As Head of HR, you'll have the opportunity to build and deliver our People Strategy, develop a high-performing HR function and help shape an already positive culture into something truly exceptional.
What we’re looking for in a Head of HR: We’re looking for someone who combines strategic vision with operational excellence. Someone who enjoys partnering with senior leaders, developing teams and finding practical solutions to complex people challenges. You'll bring confidence, credibility and the ability to influence at every level of the organisation. Most importantly, you'll share our values and be passionate about creating an outstanding employee experience.
You will have:
- Significant senior HR leadership experience
- Experience developing and delivering People Strategies
- Strong employment law and employee relations expertise
- Outstanding stakeholder management skills
- A passion for coaching leaders and developing teams
- CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent)
Experience within the not-for-profit or public sector would be welcomed but is by no means essential. If you’re looking for a Head of HR role where your ideas will be heard, your expertise valued and your impact felt across an entire organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of people at USDAW.
Head of HR in Salford employer: USDAW
The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. Located in the vibrant Salford Quays, employees benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters growth and innovation, alongside competitive salaries and opportunities to engage in meaningful research that drives social change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR in Salford
✨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 USDAW!
✨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 USDAW.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR in Salford
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 USDAW. 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 USDAW 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 USDAW. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to USDAW'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 USDAW
✨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 USDAW.
✨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 USDAW 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 USDAW and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
