This is a pivotal role at the heart of the University, where you will partner with senior leaders to design and deliver a complex change programme that will enhance organisational performance, culture and capability. You will play a critical role in ensuring that change initiatives are successfully implemented and embedded, delivering sustainable outcomes across faculties and professional services.

About the role

As a Senior HR Change Manager, you will lead the HR contribution to major organisational change programmes, ensuring that organisational design, consultation and implementation are delivered effectively, compliantly and with a strong focus on people.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the end-to-end delivery of complex, high-impact organisational change programmes
• Providing expert advice, challenge and coaching to senior leaders on the people implications of change
• Designing and implementing effective organisational structures and workforce solutions
• Managing risk, dependencies and governance across multiple change initiatives
• Ensuring compliance with employment legislation, University policy and trade union agreements
• Driving effective communication, engagement and stakeholder management throughout change
• Building leadership capability to enable managers to successfully lead teams through change

You will also contribute to the wider strategic work of the HR Directorate, working collaboratively across specialist teams to ensure a joined-up and high-quality approach to people initiatives.

About you

We are looking for a credible and resilient HR professional with significant experience of leading organisational change in complex environments.

You will bring:

• Proven experience delivering large-scale organisational change and transformation programmes
• Strong expertise in organisational design, consultation processes and employee relations
• A track record of successfully influencing senior leaders and stakeholders
• The ability to operate effectively in ambiguous and fast-paced environments
• Excellent programme and project management skills
• A strong understanding of employment law and HR best practice

You will be confident in providing both support and constructive challenge, using insight and judgement to develop innovative and practical solutions.

A Level 7 qualification (or equivalent experience) is essential. CIPD Chartership and/or a recognised project management qualification are desirable.

What we offer

At the University of Southampton, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We offer:

• A collaborative and inclusive culture
• Generous annual leave and pension schemes
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities
• Access to extensive learning and development opportunities
• The chance to contribute to impactful, organisation-wide transformation

Closing Date: 27 May 2026

Section: Management, Specialist & Administrative

Salary: £46,049 to £58,225 per annum
Full Time Fixed Term until 31/12/2027

This is a fantastic opportunity to work at the heart of complex change programmes, collaborating with senior leaders, stakeholders and Trade Unions to shape the future of our organisation.

About the Role

Reporting to the Senior HR Change Manager, you will lead on the delivery of HR activity across change programmes, ensuring that all processes are managed effectively, sensitively and in line with University policies and best practice.

You will act as a trusted advisor, providing expert HR guidance while coordinating a range of activities including consultation processes, stakeholder engagement, workforce planning and transition support. From preparing consultation materials and managing communications, to supporting staff through change, you will help ensure smooth and successful implementation.

The role also involves developing and reviewing job descriptions, supporting equality impact assessments, managing HR data and risk analysis, and contributing to the design of new organisational structures and ways of working. You will play a key role in ensuring that people are supported, engaged and equipped throughout periods of change.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a confident and collaborative HR professional with significant experience supporting complex organisational change within a large or multifaceted organisation. You will bring:

• Proven experience of delivering HR support for large-scale change initiatives
• Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Experience working with HR policies, employee relations matters, and consultation processes
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability
• A relevant qualification at degree level (or equivalent)

Experience of working with Trade Unions, job evaluation methodologies, or within a Higher Education environment would be advantageous.

Why Join Us?

At the University of Southampton, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where our people can thrive. You’ll be part of a collaborative HR team that plays a vital role in shaping organisational success and employee experience.

This role offers the chance to work on meaningful, high-profile change programmes, develop your expertise, and make a tangible impact across the University community.

Closing Date: 27 May 2026

Section: Management, Specialist & Administrative

Salary: £36,636 to £44,746 per annum
Full Time Fixed Term until 31/12/2027