Senior Human Resources Business Partner

The Opportunity:

Human Resources are a strategic partner in delivering the University of Edinburgh’s mission and values. We have an important role in shaping aspirational and innovative long-term people strategies that attract, develop, reward and retain a highly motivated and diverse workforce. We are a community of over 140 HR professionals who strive for a positive supportive culture and working environment. We influence change initiatives, define talent and development opportunities and deliver quality life cycle services that help the University and its Academic and Professional Service staff succeed.  

As Senior HR Partner aligned to Corporate Services, you and the team will contribute to the provision of a professional HR service to around 3,000 staff across a diverse range of departments and roles. You’ll plan and organise a range of HR activities over the departments you support. This includes developing HR plans and contributing to strategies which support the annual business planning over the medium to long term.  You’ll act as a conduit between Corporate Services departments and other HR teams, to deliver value adding guidance and expertise, drive a consistent approach and a seamless service for our colleagues. 

You’ll need a well-developed level of professional knowledge and experience to effectively analyse and interpret each situation, and offer pragmatic, business-focused advice and guidance, balancing legal implications, risk appetite and business need.   You’ll be communicating with, challenging and influencing a variety of stakeholders effectively, presenting sound and well-reasoned arguments. Challenges will vary in size and complexity and will normally be solved through discussion, direction and advising on suitable options with a high degree of tact, sensitivity and emotional intelligence. You’ll take the initiative, originate action and be responsible for the consequences of decisions made, using these as an opportunity to continuously improve the delivery of an effective HR service.  Overall you’ll need the ability to effectively prioritise and balance a busy workload and competing demands. 

Your skills and attributes for success:

• Educated to degree level or with comparable relevant experience
• Proven track record in HR roles
• Strong interpersonal, communication and influencing skills
• Proven project management and change management skills
• High level of personal credibility
• Thorough, in depth knowledge of UK employment law
• Demonstrable ability to coach managers
• Able to effectively establish and manage own work priorities
• Ability to adapt and work effectively with a variety of situations, individuals or groups
• Experienced in the use of Microsoft Office software