Job Title

Were partnering with a prestigious educational institution in search of an Interim Head of HR to provide both strategic direction and operational leadership across all HR functions. This is a pivotal role that aligns people practices with the Colleges core values of inclusivity, sustainability, and wellbeing.Interested in this role You can find all the relevant information in the description below.As the most senior HR professional in the College, you will advise on complex HR issues, lead a capable HR team, and ensure full compliance with UK employment legislation while fostering a high-performing, people-focused culture.Key Responsibilities:Strategic HR LeadershipDevelop and implement a forward-thinking HR strategy aligned with the Institutions vision and long-term objectives.Act as a key advisor to senior leadership and Council on workforce planning, talent development, and strategic HR initiatives.Lead, mentor, and support the HR team, cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and service excellence.Ensure all HR policies and practices remain legally compliant and reflect best practice.Serve as the lead HR Business Partner and principal contact for complex employment law matters.Manage the HR budget and work with Finance to optimise HR systems and resources.Operational HR DeliveryProvide expert, solutions-focused advice to leaders, managers, and staff across academic and support functions.Oversee employee relations and ensure fair, consistent handling of complex HR cases.Lead on recruitment, onboarding, and job design, ensuring consistency with organisational needs.Drive performance management, learning and development, and feedback frameworks.Ensure compliance with immigration and visa requirements (UKVI), and oversee accurate and secure HR data management.Champion staff wellbeing, occupational health, and a strong induction process.Liaise closely with the Secretary to Council on governance, fellowship, and related matters.Policy, Governance & ComplianceEnsure all HR policies and procedures are legally compliant, up-to-date, and clearly communicated.Provide guidance on statutory obligations and work closely with governance colleagues to uphold compliance.Strengthen internal HR governance frameworks and reporting processes.Committee EngagementActively contribute to key committees including the Employment Consultative Committee, HR Committee, and Prevent Committee.Offer expert insights on legislative changes and HR policy matters.Oversee secretariat support for HR-related committees.Project & Change ManagementLead strategic HR initiatives such as staff surveys, pay and benefits reviews, and workforce planning projects.Champion organisational development and change initiatives that enhance employee experience and engagement.Monitor external HR trends and introduce innovative practices aligned with institutional goals.Candidate Profile:Qualifications & ExperienceEducated to degree level (essential).CIPD Level 7 or equivalent postgraduate qualification (essential).Extensive senior-level HR leadership experience, ideally with a strong background in business partnering.Proven track record of delivering change and implementing HR systems.(Desirable) Experience within higher education or a similar academic/collegiate setting.In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.Skills & AttributesCredible advisor and coach with strong stakeholder management skills.Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing capabilities.Strategic mindset combined with hands-on operational delivery.Resilient, organised, and adaptable to a dynamic working environment.Collaborative leader with a track record of developing high-performing teams.Tech-savvy, with proficiency in HRIS and Microsoft Office tools.Professional, discreet, and aligned with the values of integrity and inclusion.