Head of HR Business Partnering and Projects

Job Description

Cradlefin Consultants are recruiting for a Head of HR Business Partnering and Projects to support the Head of People Services in effectively managing and overseeing the organisation’s human resources functions, with a focus on HR business partnering, employee relations, strategic HR initiatives, and key projects. The Head of HR Business Partnering and Projects will play a crucial role in shaping and executing HR strategies, policies, and programmes that align with the organisation’s goals and objectives. This role also involves leading HR Business Partners, providing expert advice, managing employee relations, and overseeing strategic projects, including the review and management of legal entities and other critical HR initiatives.

Job Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Head of People Services to develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives that align with the organisation’s goals and objectives. Translate strategic HR plans into actionable programmes and projects that drive business outcomes.
• Lead, manage, and develop a team of HR Business Partners, ensuring they provide effective support to their respective business areas. Ensure consistent and high-quality delivery of HR services across the organisation through the HR Business Partnering team.
• Oversee the management of employee relations, ensuring that cases are handled in a fair, consistent, and legally compliant manner. Provide expert advice and guidance on complex ER issues, including disciplinary actions, grievances, and performance management.
• Lead and manage key HR projects, including organisational restructures, mergers, acquisitions, and the review of legal entities. Ensure that all HR projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget, while meeting the organisation’s strategic objectives.
• Develop, review, and update HR policies to ensure they are compliant with current legislation and best practice. Monitor the application of HR policies across the organisation, providing guidance and making adjustments as necessary.
• Ensure that the organisation’s HR practices and policies comply with all relevant employment laws and regulations. Oversee the management of legal entities within the organisation, ensuring that HR-related legal requirements are met.
• Lead change management initiatives related to HR, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruption to the business. Support the organisation in navigating complex change, providing guidance on the people implications and necessary HR interventions.
• Utilise HR analytics and metrics to inform decision-making, identify trends, and drive continuous improvement within HR functions. Ensure the HR Business Partnering team uses data effectively to support business decisions and strategies.

Person Specifications:

• Expertise in developing and implementing HR strategies that align with organisational goals, including workforce planning, talent management, and organisational development.
• Strong knowledge of employee relations practices, including handling disciplinary actions, grievances, and performance management, as well as familiarity with employment law and regulations.
• Proven experience in leading and managing complex HR projects, such as restructures, mergers, and acquisitions, with the ability to plan, execute, and monitor projects within scope, budget, and timelines.
• In-depth understanding of employment law, regulations, and HR-related legal requirements, particularly in the context of managing legal entities and ensuring compliance across the organisation.
• Familiarity with HR technology systems, such as HRIS, applicant tracking systems (ATS), and other HR software tools that support HR processes, data management, and reporting.

Experience

• At least 8-10 years of progressive HR experience, including substantial experience in strategic HR roles and project management.
• Previous experience in a leadership role managing HR teams or Business Partners.
• Experience managing complex employee relations issues, ideally within an education or similar sector.
• Working knowledge of the education sector or a related field is preferred but not essential.
• Experience working in a large, multi-site organisation is essential.