Interim Head of Human Resources - 10-month Fixed Term Contract Location: Headington, Oxford (Hybrid – 4 days on site, parking available)Salary: £56,000 – £65,000 per annum plus extensive benefits
Reed HR is partnering exclusively with a globally recognised, research-led organisation to appoint an Interim Head of Human Resources.
This is a senior, influential HR leadership role supporting a complex organisation with both UK-based and international operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you will provide strategic and hands-on HR leadership during a critical period, with a strong focus on employee relations and risk management.
The Role
- Act as the senior HR advisor to the COO and Head of Department on complex people matters
- Lead and deliver HR strategy, ensuring compliant and high-quality service delivery
- Serve as the escalation point for complex employee relations, including grievances, restructures and redundancy activity
- Lead, develop and motivate a large HR team
- Provide expert oversight of international employment issues, supporting overseas staff across Asia and Africa
- Partner closely with senior leaders across research units to support organisational change
- Champion equality, diversity and inclusion across the workforce
A significant portion of the role will focus on ER casework, requiring a calm, pragmatic and solutions-focused approach.
About You
- CIPD Level 7 qualified (essential)
- Proven experience operating as a senior HR leader in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment
- Strong track record managing complex employee relations cases at senior level
- Sound knowledge of UK employment law and workforce risk management
- Confident advising executive-level stakeholders
- Experience supporting or overseeing international workforces highly desirable
Working Pattern & Benefits
- On-site requirement: 4 days per week, with parking available
- 38 days annual leave
- Excellent contributory pension scheme
- Family-friendly policies and comprehensive childcare support
- Cycle-to-work, discounted travel schemes and social/sports club membership
- Inclusive, collaborative and values-driven culture
This is a 10-month fixed-term contract to cover planned leave, with an anticipated start in June.
Due to the time sensitive nature of this opportunity, we can only consider candidates able to begin work at shorter notice.
Please do not hesitate in applying today if you would like to be considered for this wonderful opportunity.
