We’re supporting a university client to appoint an experienced HR Business Partner into a large Student Services directorate (c.500 staff). The directorate has been through significant structural change over the past two years and is now at a critical capacity point, with a strong need for proactive, solutions-focused HR support.

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract.

The Role:
You’ll partner with senior leaders across the directorate to strengthen manager capability, support onboarding delivery, and address people challenges linked to recent transformation.

There is one existing HR BP in place, but they are currently stretched, so this role is key to stabilising, building trust, and helping shape a sustainable, longer-term people approach.

They’re looking for someone who will:
Take time to listen and understand the landscape
Build credibility quickly with managers and leadership
Step back and assess the bigger picture
Propose creative, pragmatic solutions that support long-term outcomes
You’ll be confident suggesting new directions where needed and comfortable operating in a changing environment.

About You
We’re looking for:
Proven HR Business Partner experience within Higher Education
A strong understanding of how universities operate, governance, academic/professional services environments, and stakeholder complexity
Experience supporting managers through change and structural transition
Ability to influence, challenge and build trust at senior level
Energy, resilience and a collaborative, solutions-led mindset