Director of People & Culture

University of Bedfordshire; Luton; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Bedfordshire seeks a visionary Director of People and Culture to lead its People & Culture department. This role involves spearheading cultural transformation and organizational development, shaping the university's future through its people. The successful candidate will have a strong record in HR leadership and a collaborative mindset promoting diversity and continuous improvement.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme

Annual leave

Free fitness classes

Gym membership

Flexible working arrangements

Opportunities for personal and professional development

Qualifications

• Proven track record in senior HR leadership.
• Understanding of higher education challenges.

Responsibilities

• Lead People & Culture department.
• Spearhead cultural transformation.

Skills

Leadership

Cultural Change

Diversity

Innovation

Job description

Job Opportunity: Director of People and Culture

The University of Bedfordshire, an internationally recognised and award-winning institution with over 100 years of heritage, is seeking an exceptional Director of People and Culture. We are committed to nurturing students into educated, employable, and entrepreneurial global citizens. Our vibrant student body of approximately 15,000 from 115 countries is part of a university ranked among the top 300 worldwide under 50 years old by the Times Higher Education World Young University rankings. In our latest QAA review, we received commendations for our high standards and quality of education.

Our Transforming Bedfordshire Strategy charts a bold future, emphasizing diversity, employability, social mobility, and financial resilience. We face challenges like declining student numbers and financial pressures, prompting strategic reviews to ensure sustainability. Central to our success are our talented staff community, whose dedication drives our transformative student experiences.

Role Overview

We are looking for a visionary Director of People and Culture to lead our People & Culture department. Reporting directly to the Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, you will spearhead cultural transformation and organizational development, shaping the university's future through its people.

Key Qualifications and Experience

• A proven track record in senior HR leadership and successful cultural change within complex organizations.
• A deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges in higher education and how to enable future development.
• A collaborative, innovative mindset that promotes diversity, development, and continuous improvement.

Experience in higher education is desirable but not essential. We value strategic leadership and a strong record of delivering people-focused change.

Additional Information

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the university's culture, support staff, and enhance student outcomes. For an informal discussion, please contact Jim Andrews, Interim Director of People and Culture, at [e-mail].

Final interviews are scheduled for Wednesday, 2nd July 2025. For the full job description and person specification, please click here.

The position is based in Luton, with travel to other campuses as required.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The University values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment that celebrates and values all members of our staff and student community. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including those from Black, Asian, and Ethnic Minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including a generous pension scheme, annual leave, free fitness classes and gym membership, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

Application Process

Please apply via the University's website.