Interim Deputy Director of Human Resources

Location: Egham, United Kingdom

Salary: £84,140 per annum plus a London Allowance of £2,590 per annum. The starting salary may be higher for exceptional skills and experience.

Post Type: Full Time • Hours per Week: 35 • Weeks per Year: 52 • Contract: Fixed-Term (until 1 May 2026 with possible extension, subject to circumstance)

Closing Date: 23:59 BST on Friday 10 October 2025

Reference: 0925-224

Right to work: The University cannot issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for this position. The appointed candidate must be eligible to work in the UK or have leave to remain for the duration of employment in accordance with UK law.

Overview

Royal Holloway, University of London is seeking an Interim Deputy Director of HR who can lead and transform the HR function. This is a pivotal role for a change-maker who will modernise systems, embed digital innovation, and drive cultural transformation while ensuring high-quality HR services.

You will be a values-led leader committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, student success and wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and the social purpose of higher education. You will work with the Interim HR Director to own operational delivery and drive service excellence across the university.

What You’ll Do

• Lead transformation of the HR function and take ownership of operational delivery
• Ensure services are efficient, responsive, and people-centred to support colleagues across the university
• Embed digital innovation and modernise HR systems and processes
• Engage with senior leaders, trade unions, and stakeholders to build trust and drive change
• Champion equality, diversity and inclusion in line with the university’s values

What You’ll Bring

• Senior HR leadership experience in a complex, unionised environment, ideally within higher education
• Track record of delivering service improvements and operational excellence
• Deep expertise in UK employment law, employee relations, and the full HR remit
• Credibility to influence senior leaders and navigate relationships with trade unions

Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Training and development opportunities
• Pension scheme with generous employer contribution
• Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans, and support with eyesight testing
• Free parking

How to Apply

If you’re energised by change and motivated by purpose, we’d love to hear from you. For an informal discussion please contact Aisla Nicholls, Interim Director of HR (aisla.nicholls@rhul.ac.uk). Please quote the reference 0925-224.

To apply online and view the full Job Description & Person Specification, visit the university’s careers page. The university has adopted hybrid working for some roles, so some remote working may be possible for this role.

Royal Holloway is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and encourages applications from all people. More information on EDI and staff networks can be found on the Equality and Diversity Intranet page.