Head of HR

Head of HR

Not sure what skills you will need for this opportunity Simply read the full description below to get a complete picture of candidate requirements.
Hours: Full-Time, 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £63,000 - £69,000 per annum, depending on experience
Location: Cambridge

The Role

Are you an experienced HR professional? Do you have a proven track-record of delivering an effective HR service across a complex organisation? This establishment seeks to appoint a new Head of HR, in succession to the current post-holder who is retiring after 22 years. This is an exciting opportunity to join an employer which seeks to remain at the forefront of education, learning and research.

As Head of HR, you will make a vital contribution to the smooth and effective running of the establishment by providing relevant, timely and professional HR advice and support, and by ensuring that the HR Department delivers its operations to a high standard.

About the Employer

Founded in 1326, this educational establishment is the second oldest of the 31 such establishments in Cambridge. Regarded as one of the more progressive and informal, it is renowned as an establishment that achieves academically at the highest levels, whilst also being welcoming, forward-thinking, and inclusive. The organisation has a small number of academic employees and around 150 non-academic staff across a wide range of departments (including Housekeeping, Hospitality, Buildings and Maintenance, Porters, Finance and Tutorial). Staff support the academic mission of the establishment as well as its commercial conferencing business.

Located in the heart of Cambridge city centre, the establishment is extraordinarily beautiful and famed for its gardens on “the Backs” (the famous backs of the establishments that overlook the River Cam). The Old Court, a Grade I listed building, is the centre of the establishment and is unique among the ancient educational providers in having maintained its architectural integrity over the course of its history.

About You

You will be an experienced HR professional with a demonstrable ability to multi-task at operational and strategic levels, including policy development, staff engagement, wellbeing and training.  A high degree of discretion, judgement and tact, and the ability to work and remain calm under pressure are all prerequisites, as are a solution-oriented mindset and a focus on continuous improvement. You will be able to deal with people professionally, politely and sensitively at all levels, both verbally and in writing, and to take into account different views or priorities before making balanced recommendations or taking action.

Remuneration will be between £63,000 and £69,000 depending on experience. There will be a four-month probationary period. The role holder will be eligible to join the employer's contributory pension scheme after three months’ service.  In addition to this the post holder would be eligible to park at the establishment, receive a bonus every year, and meals on duty. The employer also offers membership of a defined salary sacrifice pension contribution scheme and a Healthcare cash plan.

The closing date for this position is 09:00 BST on Thursday 21 May 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview on the afternoon of Wednesday 27 May 2026.

To Apply and for more information

Click the job board apply button to be taken to the next stage. There you can find out more information and complete your application by following the instructions (you may need to scroll down).

This employer is committed to the principles of equal opportunities, diversity and respect and wants to be known as an employer that invests in its staff, recognising and rewarding them for their commitment. xwzovoh

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