Director of People

Durham University; North East; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Director of People to oversee progressive HR practices and implement the People Strategy. The role involves employee relations management, compliance activities, and supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. Candidates should be CIPD qualified with significant HR leadership experience. This position offers a competitive salary and an opportunity to make a significant impact in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• CIPD qualified or equivalent with significant HR experience.
• Experience in leading diverse teams within an HR function.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to design practical solutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement current People Strategy.
• Lead HR practices to support institutional strategy.
• Manage employee relations through the Business Partner Team.

Skills

Leadership in HR

Employee Relations

Analytical Skills

Change Management

Data Interpretation

Education

CIPD Qualification or Equivalent

Job description

As one of the UK’s leading universities, Durham offers a unique and historic setting, a global centre of teaching and research excellence, and a warm and inclusive community. Our refreshed strategy sets ambitious goals for delivering transformative education and research, and our community of highly talented people is critical to its success.

We are seeking a Director of People, reporting to the Chief People Officer. The successful candidate will ensure excellent and progressive HR practices in support of our institutional strategy, and will lead the development and implementation of our current People Strategy, as well as support the shaping of a new strategy. As the nominated deputy for the CPO, responsibilities include employee relations (via the Business Partner Team), the University’s Occupational Health service, talent acquisition, and compliance activities. Additionally, you will be the HR lead for equality, diversity, and inclusion, supporting the CPO and senior colleagues in managing trade union relations.

Candidates should be CIPD qualified or hold an equivalent professional qualification, with significant experience leading diverse teams within an HR/People function. This includes experience in business partnering or employee relations, leading change projects, advising on complex employee issues, and working with employee representative structures. An analytical approach, data interpretation skills, and the ability to design effective solutions to complex problems are essential.

This is a critical appointment for the University. If you are passionate about delivering excellence with a commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: Tuesday 23^rd September 2025 at 5pm.

Interviews will be held on Wednesday 5^th November 2025.

At Durham University, we aim to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including people with disabilities, women, and members of Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities.

Salary: Competitive