HR Business Partner

Job description

We are looking for an experienced HR professional to join the University of Cambridge as an HR Business Partner within the Human Resources Division. The role focuses on providing trusted, proactive HR support that helps managers and leaders deliver their people and organisational objectives.

We encourage early applications as they will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The vacancy may close before the advertised deadline if a sufficient number of suitable applications are received.

About the role

Working closely with managers and senior leaders across the University, you will provide expert advice on a broad range of people matters, including employee relations, organisational change, workforce planning and HR best practice. You will help translate people strategy into practical, evidence-based solutions that support a positive employee experience and high-performing teams.

You will also contribute to HR projects, policy development and service improvement initiatives, working collaboratively with specialist HR teams and key stakeholders.

What you will be doing

• Providing expert HR advice and consultancy to managers and leaders.
• Supporting employee relations casework and organisational change activity.
• Delivering high-quality, customer-focused HR services.
• Coaching and developing managers to build people management capability.
• Leading or contributing to HR projects and service improvement initiatives.
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders, including trade unions and specialist HR teams.

We are looking for someone who has

• Significant HR experience in a generalist or specialist role.
• Strong knowledge of employment law, employee relations and organisational change.
• Experience delivering HR projects and supporting change initiatives.
• Strong communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• CIPD qualification or equivalent professional experience.

Why join us?

Alongside working in a collaborative and supportive environment, the University of Cambridge offers a range of excellent benefits, including:

• Development opportunities such as LinkedIn Learning, job shadowing and career pathways.
• 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays) and a highly competitive pension scheme.
• Hybrid working with flexibility in how you arrange your office days.
• A wide range of discounts at local retailers and thousands of national brands.
• Health and wellbeing support, including discounted gym access and the Staff Counselling Service.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for flexible working arrangements.

How to Apply

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 06 January 2029.

For this role, all applications will be managed by Spirehouse Recruitment. To apply, please send your CV to [email protected]

For further information about the role, please contact Abbie Carr (Executive Consultant), [email protected]

Closing date: Monday 19 October 2026

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.