HR Partner (maternity cover)

We are seeking an experienced HR Partner to join a busy HR team within a successful and growing department at the University of Oxford. This is a maternity cover role, with the opportunity to contribute to a wide range of HR activities and initiatives.

The HR team supports the department with HR administration, strategy, and casework. As HR Partner, you will be primarily responsible for managing employee relations cases, providing expert advice to managers and colleagues on a range of HR matters. You will also play a key role in HR projects, including changes to absence monitoring systems as part of the workforce management project.

Key Responsibilities:

Employee Relations: Provide guidance and advice on managing employee relations issues, including probation monitoring, workplace conflict, performance management, long-term sickness, and redundancy processes.

Coaching & Advising: Coach and support managers ensuring compliance with best practices.

HR Projects & Initiatives: Get involved in HR projects, including improvements to absence monitoring systems and broader workforce management initiatives.

What We’re Looking For:

Proven experience in employee relations and performance management.

Solid knowledge of employment law and good HR practice.

Ability to advise and coach managers in handling complex HR issues.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a track-record of building relationships at all levels.

Contract and working arrangements

The role will be based at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences in Oxford, with the flexibility of regular remote working, subject to agreement with your line manager.

This is a 9-month maternity cover post starting May/June 2025. Hours are full-time, with part-time options available at 80% FTE or above.

The role might provide a good opportunity for an internal secondment for existing University of Oxford staff looking to expand their HR experience.

For further information or discuss the post please contact the Head of the department HR Team, Clare Wickings (clare.wickings@phc.ox.ac.uk).

“Committed to equality and valuing diversity”

How to Apply:

You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement. Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application.

The closing date for applications is 12:00 noon on Wednesday 12 March 2025

Interviews are expected to be held on 27 March 2025.

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