Deputy Head of Human Resources

Harwell, Oxfordshire – primarily based onsite / some home working available

Full time / Flexible hours considered

About Us

Diamond Light Source is one of the world’s most advanced scientific facilities. We’re home to the UK’s synchrotron light source – a giant microscope producing beams of light 10 billion times brighter than the sun. Probing the structure and composition of matter, our work drives innovation in everything from vaccines to nanotech.

Diamond is one of the most advanced scientific facilities in the world, and its pioneering capabilities and talented staff are helping to keep the UK at the forefront of scientific research.

About the Role

We now have an excellent opportunity for an experienced HR professional to join us as Deputy Head of Human Resources, to support the Head of HR in the delivery of HR and organisational strategic aims and objectives.

You will also line manage the team’s HR Business Partners and Recruitment Manager, to drive a high value, solutions orientated HR service to the Company in all areas of people management.

Further responsibilities will include:

• Working with the Head of HR in the development, delivery and implementation of the HR Strategy.
• Leading on the management and coordination on a range of high-level corporate projects.
• Deputising for the Head of HR and providing advice and support to the Diamond Executive and other senior managers.
• Leading, developing and motivating team members within the HR Group, including deputising for the Head of HR across the other HR functional areas (Organisational Development, Equality and Employee Wellbeing and Payroll).
• Providing support and guidance to HRBP’s on complex individual employment cases, and managing associated risks, along with providing clear direction and guidance in the provision and delivery of a comprehensive, effective HR service.
• Working closely with the Executive team and other stakeholders on the management of complex and/or high-risk employment cases.
• Leading on the management and use of third-party contracts providers - HR and Payroll system, e-recruitment solution, benefits platforms, and Occupational Health Service to ensure an effective and cost efficient service;
• Representing the Company and leading the formal negotiating and communication framework, brokering solutions, along with consulting and negotiating with union officials on ER matters and supporting annual pay remit submissions.
• Leading and assisting in the strategic development and review of HR policies, procedures and processes.
• Working closely with the OD and E&W Managers on joint initiatives.

About You

Suitable candidate will have a strong education background, as well as full membership of the CIPD (MCIPD/ FCIPD) or significant equivalent experience. You should also be trained in job evaluation methodologies.

You will be a highly experienced HR professional, with experience in HR management including managing resources.

Your HR knowledge and experience will include:

• Current employment legislation and HR best practice.
• Excellent knowledge and recent experience of supporting the management of ER and recruitment issues (ideally in a unionised environment).
• Organisational change.
• Contributing to the formulation of the HR strategy.
• Managing the coordination and delivery of key HR Services.
• Payroll knowledge and HR Systems implementation experience.
• Presenting and facilitating HR topics to wide audiences.

You will display up to date knowledge of UK employment law along with an understanding of professional, ethical and legal standards required in the role.

You will also demonstrate strong project and process management skills, along with a strong customer focus and excellent communication and interpersonal skills to deal with a wide range of stakeholders with conflicting priorities.

Benefits

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable.

To Apply

Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role.

Diamond is a thriving international organisation, attracting a diverse range of talented individuals from around the world. Our staff currently comprises 44 nationalities and we welcome applications from everyone interested in joining us.

The closing date for applications is 31st March with interviews scheduled for 15th and 16th April.