Job Description

Are you an HR manager ready to take on the challenge of supporting a large multi-disciplined workforce?

Join our

Estates Services

team at the

University of Oxford

and play a pivotal role in driving effective HR practices that support our diverse workforce.

Location

: The Malthouse, Tidmarsh Lane, Oxford

Salary

: 39,424- 47,779 per annum

Contract

: Full-time, six months secondment cover. This role is also available as an internal secondment.

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world's leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

Estates Services

is one of the University's largest departments, providing the buildings, facilities, and infrastructure that underpin Oxford's academic mission. From world-famous historic colleges to cutting-edge laboratories, our work touches every part of University life. With staff spread across multiple sites, Estates Services is a dynamic environment and people are at the heart of everything we do. As our Interim HR Manager, you will lead and develop the HR function that supports this vital mission.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford comes with a wide range of exceptional benefits, including:
38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service. One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave. A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle. An excellent contributory pension scheme. Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans. Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

As Interim HR Manager for Estates Services, you will lead the HR function. Reporting to the Head of Business Administration, you will oversee a team of HR professionals delivering a responsive, high-quality HR service across performance, employee relations, recruitment and staff wellbeing.

You will act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders and managers, providing guidance on HR policy, employment law, and change management. At the same time, you'll manage a team of HR staff, providing day-to-day support and guidance.

This is a role where no two days are the same - one moment you may be advising on complex employee relations cases, the next driving forward initiatives such as staff development programmes and process improvement. You will be at the centre of people management in a department that directly supports Oxford's world-class research and teaching mission.

About You

A CIPD qualification (graduate level or above), or equivalent experience. Substantial experience of managing HR operations in a large, complex organisation. Proven ability to lead and develop an HR team. Strong knowledge of UK employment law and its practical application. Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships at all levels.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:
A covering letter/supporting statement Your CV The details of two referees
The closing date for applications is

12 noon on Wednesday, 8 October 2025.

Interviews will take place the week commencing

13 October 2025

, and will be held

face-to-face.