About the UN Global Compact Network UK
We are a dynamic multi-stakeholder initiative, dedicated to connecting UK companies to the United Nations Global Compact, the world's largest responsible business initiative. The Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, rooted in UN treaties, provide a robust foundation and comprehensive framework for corporate sustainability and business action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Our mission is to champion sustainability leadership to create a world we want to live and do business in, by inspiring ambition, enabling impactful action, and collaborating to reshape the business environment for the better.
The UN Global Compact Network UK has over 900 participating companies, with a team of 31 people, and is growing quickly.
Our work is guided by the core values of the United Nations – Integrity, Respect for Diversity, and Professionalism – alongside nine additional values and behaviours of the UN Global Compact which can be found here. During a recent review, the team described our workplace as friendly, inclusive, supportive, passionate, and hard-working.
About the role
We are seeking a Head of Human Resources to join our dynamic team.
This standalone role offers you the opportunity to shape and lead the HR function, developing and delivering people strategies that reflect our mission and values. You'll be the key point of contact for all people matters, providing expert guidance across the organisation, managing employee relations, and acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders and line managers.
The position combines strategic input with hands-on delivery, helping us to attract, retain, and develop the right people while building an inclusive and supportive workplace.
The Head of HR will report to the Chief of Staff, and will be a member of our Senior Management Team. We offer a flexible hybrid working environment, with a minimum of two days per week in the office.
Who we are looking for:
* Someone who has proven generalist HR experience (ideally CIPD Level 5 or equivalent) and knows how to apply UK employment law in a practical, people-focused way.
* Someone confident advising on employee relations, organisational design, and workforce planning, and can balance daily operational delivery with long-term strategic thinking.
* Someone with strong problem-solving and strategic skills at a senior level, with the ability to think critically and make informed decisions.
* Someone with experience in developing clear policies, processes, and systems that make life easier for line managers and team members.
* Someone with experience in learning and development, who is committed to helping people grow and succeed.
* Someone with excellent communication skills who can build relationships at every level, with a collaborative approach.
The UN Global Compact Network UK has a broad remit, but the Network Secretariat team is relatively small, so the Director of Impact may be required to support other activities from time to time.
Key Responsibilities - after onboarding, we will expect you to:
* Lead the HR function, ensuring it runs effectively and supports organisational goals.
* Advise senior leaders on people matters, using HR data to guide decision-making.
* Develop and deliver strategic people plans, policies and reward packages.
* Oversee recruitment, onboarding and diversity initiatives to attract and retain talent.
* Manage key people metrics, budgets and HR systems to drive performance and compliance.
* Handle employee relations issues with discretion and professionalism.
* Support learning, development and succession planning across the organisation.
* Equip line managers with the skills and tools to lead their teams effectively.
* Lead internal HR communications, engagement surveys and feedback reporting.
A full job description will be shared with all candidates prior to the first interview.
What we offer:
* Hybrid working – After onboarding, a minimum of 2 days in the office per week, working from home up to 3 days per week.
* Flexible working, once discussed with your line manager. Our core/active hours are 10 am to 4 pm.
* Employee Assistance Programme for you and your immediate family.
* Three additional days off between Christmas and New Year, offered at the organisation's discretion.
* Additional leave days based on length of service.
* One additional day off for mission-related volunteering.
* Enhanced sick leave.
* Compassionate leave.
* Season ticket loan.
* Cycle to Work Scheme, including Bike-sharing Cycle Scheme.
* Enhanced Pension Scheme, based on length of service.
This is a full-time position (37.5 hours per week).
Before applying for this role, please note the following:
* We value originality and encourage all applicants to answer any questions without the use of AI.
* Our hiring process aims to eliminate bias by using a software called Applied. To do this, we do not engage candidates outside the Applied programme until the final stages.
* The UN Global Compact Network UK is not able to sponsor work visas. We will only consider applications from candidates who already have the right to work in the UK.
While this role is within the UN Global Compact Network UK Secretariat, the successful candidate will not be formally employed by the United Nations. Learn more about the UN Global Compact Network UK's governance here.
Next Steps:
The application process includes the following steps:
1. Complete an equal opportunities questionnaire and additional questions.
2. Upload your CV.
3. Longlisted candidates will be asked to complete a written test which includes questions designed to test your ability to excel in this role. Your answers will be scored by people, not AI tools.
4. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with the Executive Director, Chief of Staff, and HR Manager.
5. Final candidates will be invited to an informal, in-person meeting.