Head of Human Resources

Mansfield College seeks to appoint a capable and professional Head of HR on a full-time permanent basis. The College is committed to the effective management of its staff. As such, this is an exciting opportunity to play a major role in the review and development of human resources policy and practice in the College, covering all College employees including Fellows and academic staff. The regulatory obligations of colleges have increased substantially in recent years and this post offers the opportunity to combine strategic and operational HR responsibilities. The College is a self-governing institution. The authority for all decisions rest with the Principal and Fellows. The Governing Body, which meets three times a term, is serviced by a structure of committees, including the Finance and Resources Committee and Academic Policy Committee. There is also an external Remuneration Committee. The post-holder will report to the Bursar, working closely with the Senior Tutor on academic contracting matters. This role is full-time at 36.5 hours per week although the ability and willingness to adopt a flexible approach to working hours and duties is expected, and you may be required to work additional hours from time to time in order to fulfil the requirements of your role and the needs of the College. Essential selection criteria * Strong generalist HR experience in a relevant setting. * Educated to degree level or equivalent competence gained through qualifications or relevant experience. * Hold an appropriate professional qualification (CIPD Chartered Member level or equivalent) * Detailed working knowledge of current UK employment legislation and current issues in personnel. * Detailed working knowledge of payroll processes. * Excellent organisational skills evidenced by previous experience * Experience of equality assurance and application of fairness at work protocols. * Effective communicator with experience of communicating with people at all levels within an organisation * The knowledge, confidence, intellectual authority and presence to command respect from Fellows and senior College officers as a subject-matter expert. * The ability to act with tact, diplomacy and discretion and to deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive information. * Good influencing, persuading, coaching and negotiating skills * Experience of supporting line managers to effectively manage their teams by offering advice and providing coaching when necessary * Data-conscious, with good IT skills, particularly in using Microsoft Office. * Thorough knowledge of the Data Protection Act and its application in the workplace. * Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines, and prioritise a busy and varied workload. * Self-starting and with strong practical problem-solving skills. * Interest in the aims and values of a progressive educational institution

Location: OX1, Oxford, GB

Posted Date: 11/4/2025