Head of People and Culture

Responsibilities:

Strategy & Development

• Ensure that the organisation has a People and Culture Strategy that is aligned with and supportive ofthe organisation’s strategy, addresses staff feedback and reflects good practice in the sector.
• Ensure that the organisation has a suite of HR policies that facilitates the smooth running of theorganisation’s services, reflects the organisation’s values and includes anti discriminatory practices.
• Manage and monitor the implementation of these policies.
• Create an annual training and development plan which promotes business improvement, a positive culture and the professional development of our employees.
• Work closely with departmental managers’ in the role of business partner to address the strategic issues in their departments related to people and culture.
• Alongside the Chair, support and service the Union’s People and Culture Committee.
• Be responsible for the Union’s employer brand, using this to ensure that the Union can source and retain the staff necessary to deliver its services.
• Manage complex employee relations issues such as disciplinaries and grievances.
• Oversee complaints and student disciplinary processes.

Financial Management

• Prepare regular reports of KPIs for People and Culture as requested by the trustees and your line manager.
• Regularly review, update and rigorously enforce the organisation’s pay and grading policy with the input of the Head of Finance as appropriate.
• Contribute significantly to payroll processing and pension procedures.
• Oversee the processes for the student staff payroll.
• Ensure the smooth running of the HR department.

Governance

• Ensure compliance with right to work and other legislation relevant to the Union’s operations.
• Ensure that major processes within the Union are auditable and follow the Union’s formal procedures.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Drive a high performing, inclusive culture across Reading SU.
• Lead and inspire staff, providing clear direction, guidance, and support including giving and receiving feedback.
• Act as lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion within the Union. Ensure that our activities in this area reflect the values of the Union and the University.
• Foster a positive working environment, encouraging teamwork, collaboration, excellent customer service and a positive values led culture. 
• Identify and manager staff training and development needs, organising appropriate training programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Be responsible for ensuring mechanisms are in place to collect candid staff feedback to inform future People and Culture activity.

Stakeholders

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, including student representatives, staff, the Students' Union executive and University representatives.
• Collaborate with external partners, sponsors, and suppliers to enhance services and explore partnership opportunities.
• Represent the Students' Union at relevant events, meetings, and industry forums.