HR Change Partner - 12 month FTC in Reading

HR Change Partner - 12 month FTC in Reading

Reading Full-Time 49500 - 60500 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Virgin Media O2

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Guide and support people through organisational change with empathy and clarity.
  • Company: Join Virgin Media O2, the UK's fastest broadband network and a beloved mobile brand.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a fantastic reward package with flexible working options and support for your well-being.
  • Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity and empowers everyone.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on people's lives during transformative changes in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in large-scale restructuring and strong communication skills are essential.

The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.

Location: Birmingham, London, Manchester, Reading

Job Family: Corporate Functions

Job Type: Full Time

Posted Date: 04-Aug-2026

Ref #: 72297

Love helping people navigate change with clarity and confidence? So do we. At Virgin Media O2, we’re transforming—and we know that meaningful change doesn’t happen to people, it happens with them. That’s where you come in.

We’re looking for a Human Resources Change Partner to join us for a 12 month FTC, to be the trusted guide and expert voice in our people-led transformation journey. This isn’t about tech systems or process tweaks—it’s about the big shifts that shape our organisation: restructures, mergers, TUPE, and everything in between. You'll partner with senior leaders and work in squads of cross-functional teams to design, deliver, and embed change that sticks—while keeping our people, values, and diversity front and centre.

You’ll lead from the front—mapping out impact, managing risk, and making sure every communication, consultation, and capability‑building moment lands with clarity and care. Whilst shaping target operating models or delivering tactical change you will be building toolkits and dashboards that tell the story of change. You’ll help us do change the right way: responsibly, sustainably, with empathy and in line with our policy and legislation.

If you’ve got a sharp mind for organisational change, a steady head through ambiguity, and a heart for people—this is your moment!

Who we are: The UK’s fastest broadband network. The nation’s best-loved mobile brand. And, one of the UK's biggest companies too. We put our customers first, making life simpler, smoother, and more joyful. With big ambitions and a brilliant team, we’re building a more connected future for everyone.

Our ways of working: We’re a flexible-first organisation, because we know people do their best work when they have choice and clarity. To support meaningful collaboration, we ask everyone to spend at least eight days each month connecting in person. That doesn’t just mean time in the office, it could be team meetings, offsites, volunteering days, cross-functional projects, or away days - anywhere meaningful collaboration happens. What matters is making those moments purposeful, so when we come together, it really counts.

Accessible, inclusive and equitable for all: Virgin Media O2 is an equal opportunities employer and we're working hard to remove bias and barriers for our people and candidates. So, we build equity and inclusion into everything we do, from the policies we craft to the relationships we shape. We support and encourage you to be your authentic self throughout your application journey with us.

The must haves:

  • Consistent record in delivering large-scale complex restructuring initiatives in an ever changing environment.
  • In depth knowledge of TUPE regulations and practical experience of handling large scale employee transfers and mergers.
  • Demonstrable ability to lead multiple initiatives simultaneously, to meet meticulous timelines and ensure key turning points are achieved.
  • Manage and navigate a variety of employment contract types, terms and conditions, and organisational policies; ensuring accurate interpretation, compliance.
  • Experience of delivering change in conjunction with employee representatives/forums and trade unions.
  • Shown ability to build strong recommendations on change approach, taking risks into account and mitigating wherever possible.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to coach, influence, negotiate and lead and set change expectations and build change capability at all levels of the organisation.
  • Collaborative approach with the confidence to challenge constructively and lead discussions toward positive, actionable outcomes.
  • Champion our data driven tools (engagement surveys, exit surveys) to help make data informed decisions and improve our overall colleague experience.
  • Ability to navigate sophisticated stakeholder environments and adapt communication style to suit varied audiences and decision‑making contexts.
  • Experience of using essential change tools such as impact assessments, project plans, and change roadmaps.

The other stuff we are looking for:

  • Strategic judgement is key—you’ll be confident making sound decisions in complex situations, balancing risks, timelines, and stakeholder needs while keeping people outcomes front of mind.
  • Courageous communication matters—you’ll be comfortable navigating sensitive conversations, influencing senior leaders, and working constructively with employee representatives and trade unions to reach the best outcomes.
  • Continuous improvement mindset - you’ll be continuously reviewing our processes and your change outcomes to consistently build on the employee experience and business outcomes using AI and automation wherever possible.

What's in it for you: Our goal is to celebrate our people, their lives and everything in-between. We aim to create a culture that empowers everyone to bring the best versions of themselves to work each and every day. We believe the most inclusive and diverse culture makes for a better business and a brighter world.

Working at Virgin Media O2, you get a bumper reward package bursting with benefits, and loads of extras you can add if you’d like to. These are designed to support both you and your loved ones, making sure that you’re covered no matter what life throws your way.

Background checks and adjustments: When you apply, you'll be asked about any adjustments you might need to support the recruitment process. Let us know, and we'll be sure to discuss it with you. All roles require a criminal record check and some roles need a financial probity check. Your recruiter can provide you with more information if needed.

Thanks for your patience and for showing an interest in joining the Virgin Media O2 family.

HR Change Partner - 12 month FTC in Reading employer: Virgin Media O2

Virgin Media O2 is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture where creativity and collaboration thrive. With a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, flexible working options, and comprehensive healthcare benefits, the company supports your professional growth while allowing you to lead impactful PR campaigns that resonate with audiences. Join us in a vibrant environment that values innovation and meaningful storytelling.

Virgin Media O2

Contact Details:

Virgin Media O2 Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land HR Change Partner - 12 month FTC in Reading

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 Virgin Media O2!

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 Virgin Media O2.

We think you need these skills to ace HR Change Partner - 12 month FTC in Reading

Organisational Change Management
TUPE Regulations Knowledge
Restructuring Initiatives
Project Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Interpersonal Skills
Communication Skills

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 Virgin Media O2. 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 Virgin Media O2 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 Virgin Media O2. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.

Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Virgin Media O2'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 Virgin Media O2

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 Virgin Media O2.

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 Virgin Media O2 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 Virgin Media O2 and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.