Senior HR Manager
Are you an experienced HR professional ready to lead a dynamic university department's HR services? As a Senior HR Manager, you will shape and deliver a proactive, solutions-oriented HR function that supports strategic objectives and enhances people management across the department.
This role offers the chance to make a significant impact within a vibrant research-driven environment. You will oversee HR operations, lead a small team, and act as a trusted adviser to senior colleagues, ensuring high-quality support throughout the full HR lifecycle. If you are passionate about fostering an inclusive culture and thrive on strategic and practical HR delivery, this is your opportunity for professional growth.
Senior HR Manager Responsibilities
This position will involve, but will not be limited to:
1. Managing all HR operations, including employee relations, recruitment, and policy implementation, to meet the department's strategic needs.
2. Providing expert advice and guidance to senior colleagues and line managers on complex employee relations cases, HR policies, and employment law.
3. Leading and developing the HR team, promoting continuous improvement, and motivating staff to deliver best practice HR services.
4. Driving HR projects, such as policy development and streamlining HR systems, to enhance departmental efficiency.
5. Facilitating training and coaching to strengthen managers' people management skills and confidence.
6. Representing the department at University HR networks and working groups to share best practice and influence HR developments.
7. Analysing HR data to inform decisions, support operational planning, and contribute to departmental strategy.
Senior HR Manager Rewards
8. Competitive salary (Grade 8: £49,119 - £58,265 per annum, including Oxford weighting)
9. Permanent, full-time role (37.5 hours per week), with flexible options available
10. Work-life balance support, including up to 40% remote working post-establishment
11. Opportunities to shape high-level HR policies in a leading academic environment
12. Engagement with a diverse, collaborative, and inclusive community
13. Access to University learning and development resources to support your career progression
14. The chance to contribute to research excellence and long-term departmental success
The Company
Our client is an innovative and research-intensive department dedicated to advancing knowledge across psychological and biological sciences. Recognised internationally for its contribution to science, the department fosters a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and excellence. It values diversity, inclusivity, and a commitment to tackling global challenges, creating an inspiring environment for staff at all levels to develop their careers and make an impact.
Senior HR Manager Experience Essentials
15. Degree or equivalent qualification with CIPD Graduate level or above
16. Proven experience managing HR operations within a complex organisation, preferably within academia or higher education
17. In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and employment relations casework
18. Experience of managing or supporting employee relations issues confidently and discreetly
19. Familiarity with HR systems (experience of People XD is highly desirable)
20. Strong organisational skills, with the ability to analyse data and develop strategic insights
21. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to coach and motivate managers
22. Experience working within the University of Oxford or similar research environment is essential