Head of People Services

Our People Services team delivers HR services across the University, including staff resourcing and lifecycle advice, contract management, immigration and compliance, payroll and HR management information.

As Head of People Services, you will play a vital role in leading a change in the culture of our HR service delivery ensuring it is effective and efficient, consistent and compliant whilst also adding value and continuous improvement.

You will also play a leading role in major and strategic projects working with other senior HR leaders.

What will you bring?

• A depth of generalist HR experience gained in a large, complex, unionised and professionally biased organisation, with experience of successfully managing a team of HR professionals.
• Extensive and recent generalist HR experience gained in a service focused role or function.
• A depth of experience of designing and implementing centralised operating frameworks. 
• A track record of developing HR policy, matching leading HR practice to business needs.
• Experience of using complex data to inform decisions and present persuasive arguments to key stakeholders.

What we can offer in return

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

• hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs)
• 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
• excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health
• retailer and wellbeing discounts via Edenred
• on campus cinema/theatre, sports facilities, library, nursery (Canterbury) and food outlets 
• study while you work discounts, cycle to work scheme, local business discounts
• support in your development and wellbeing at all stages of employment, including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Training and development opportunities at all levels
• on-site parking

If you have the skills and experience we are looking for, we welcome your application. Please see the link below to view the full job description and person specification. 

To apply, please complete the application form and upload an up-to-date CV.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Tuesday 02 April 2024  (unless otherwise stated)

Further details:   Job Description      Additional Information     

Please note that we prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.

Applications must be made via the University’s online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.

The University of Kent values diversity and promotes equality at all levels.