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Posted 23 July, 2026

Head of People Partnering

Edinburgh Napier University
Bonnyrigg, SCT, GB Full Time

Job Description

Are you an experienced HR leader with a passion for shaping organisational culture and driving strategic people outcomes?Were looking for a senior People leader to head up our People Partnering function at Edinburgh Napier University. This is a high-impact role where youll lead a team of People Partners, influence senior stakeholders, and play a key role in delivering our People Strategy and broader University ambitions.About the RoleAs Head of People Partnering, youll set the strategic direction for our partnering model and ensure the delivery of consistent, high-quality, insight-led people support across the University.This role sits on the People Leadership Team and plays a key role in shaping and delivering the Universitys People Strategy.Working closely with Deans, Directors and senior leaders, youll act as a trusted advisor, shaping organisational culture, driving workforce planning and leading large-scale change and transformation initiatives. Youll ensure the People Partnering team operates as a high-performing, value-adding function aligned to the Universitys priorities.Youll also play a critical role in developing organisational capability, embedding values-led leadership, strengthening engagement, and ensuring the University continues to evolve as an inclusive, high-performing workplace.What Youll DoLead, develop and inspire a high-performing People Partnering teamSet and deliver the strategic direction for the People Partnering modelBuild strong, credible relationships with senior leaders across the UniversityProvide expert advice on complex organisational change and people challengesDrive workforce planning, talent and succession strategiesUse people data and insight to inform decision-making and prioritisationLead large-scale transformation and change programmesChampion Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and values-led leadershipEnsure high standards of governance, risk management and professional practiceCollaborate across the wider People Team to deliver integrated people solutionsWhat Were Looking ForSignificant experience operating at a senior HR Business Partner or equivalent leadership levelProven track record of leading and developing HR/People teamsStrong experience of influencing and advising senior leaders within complex organisationsDemonstrable experience of delivering strategic people initiatives and large-scale changeExcellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skillsAbility to balance strategic leadership with operational deliveryStrong analytical capability, using insight to drive decisions and outcomesA passion for developing inclusive, values-driven and high-performing culturesWhy Join Us?At Edinburgh Napier University, were committed to innovation, collaboration and excellence. This is an opportunity to shape the future of our People Partnering function and make a meaningful impact across the University.If youre ready to lead at scale, influence at the highest level, and drive real organisational change, wed love to hear from you.Our Excellent Benefits PackageAt ENU, we offer a great working environment where we support ambition, recognise achievement, and offer other excellent benefits including:Minimum of 41 days annual leave (including 10 fixed holidays)A generous pension scheme (employer contribution of 17.6%)35 hour work weekVarious learning and development opportunitiesAccess to our benefits platform Vivup which includes huge range of discounts across the UKs major retailers, health care discounts and Cycle to WorkDiscounted access to onsite and local gym facilitiesSalary: £58,225- £ 69,488 per annum (Grade 7)Additional information:On this occasion, the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship or visa support for this role. International applicants will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.TPBN1_UKTJ