HR People Partner

Purpose of Role

As a People Partner, you'll play a key role in shaping the employee experience across the University. Working closely with leaders, you'll provide expert advice and guidance on employee relations matters, managing a varied caseload and supporting positive outcomes for both colleagues and the University. You'll also contribute to the development of HR policies, processes and projects, helping to deliver an effective and responsive People service.

Beyond operational casework, you'll contribute to the development and continuous improvement of HR policies, processes and services, ensuring they remain fit for purpose and future-focused.

You may also lead people workstreams within strategic change programmes, giving you the opportunity to make a real impact on how we support and develop our people across the University.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Providing leaders with advice, challenge and guidance on all stages of employee relations cases which will include; performance, grievance, absence and discipline. Ensuring compliance with employment law and university policies and values
• Working proactively with leaders to identify issues early and implement preventative interventions
• Coach and support managers to develop their confidence and capability in managing people matters, promoting early resolution of issues and consistent application of University policies
• Supporting the Strategic People Partner across designated client groups and deputising where appropriate
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with Trade Union representatives
• Working across and building strong relationships across the HR department to deliver a joined-up HR service
• Development, improvement and review of HR policies, procedures and guidance, including Equality and Privacy Impact Assessments, addressing the University’s strategic objectives and values, delivering good practice and compliance
• Leading on people workstreams within strategic change programmes, planning and supporting the implementation of people related changes

Person Specification

These are the criteria on which the short-listing and recruitment selection will be made.

Essential

• Educated to first degree level OR equivalent practical experience in the workplace
• Associate member of CIPD OR equivalent relevant professional membership OR relevant experience
• Proven experience as an HR practitioner, applying HR theory and best practice to deliver effective people solutions
• Good knowledge of employment legislation and HR governance, with the ability to translate legal and policy requirements into practical solutions
• Demonstrable experience of managing a varied and complex employee relations caseload, including disciplinary, grievance, capability, absence management and organisational change matters
• Excellent interpersonal, influencing and presentation skills, able to understand and communicate complex issues effectively
• Experience of working closely with stakeholders across all levels of the organisation
• High level organisational skills with the ability to prioritise major developments and to function effectively in a pressured environment

Desirable

• Coaching and/or facilitation skills and practical experience
• Experience of HR Data analytics
• Experience of using SAP / Oracle, or similar ERP system
• Ability to research, analyse and present complex information effectively with good attention to detail
• Project management experience.