Director of People

Odgers Berndtson Group; Dundee; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Scotland is seeking a Director of People to lead its people and culture agenda. The role involves shaping workforce strategy, driving organisational change, and fostering a culture of fairness and respect. The ideal candidate will have senior experience in complex organisations with a strong HR background and a commitment to equality and diversity. This is a full-time position offering significant responsibility and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Qualifications

• Senior experience in complex organisations.
• Proven track record in transformation.
• Strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Lead the People Strategy, aligning workforce planning with strategic priorities.
• Drive organisational change and capability building.
• Champion a values-driven culture of fairness, wellbeing, and respect.
• Oversee talent acquisition and leadership development.
• Modernise HR systems and deliver data-driven insights.

Skills

Leadership

HR expertise

Organisational change

Commitment to diversity

Job description

Reporting to: Principal & Vice-Chancellor and Chair of Court

The University of Dundee seeks an exceptional Director of People to lead its people and culture agenda at a pivotal time. Reporting to the Principal & Vice-Chancellor and as part of the University Executive Group, you will shape workforce strategy, organisational design, and culture to ensure long-term success.

Founded in 1967, the University of Dundee is globally recognised for excellence in education, research, and innovation. We play a vital role in Dundee’s civic and economic life, with world-leading research in life sciences and top-ranked professional education.

Role

• Lead the People Strategy, aligning workforce planning with strategic priorities.
• Drive organisational change and capability building.
• Champion a values-driven culture of fairness, wellbeing, and respect.
• Oversee talent acquisition, leadership development, and succession planning.
• Modernise HR systems and deliver data-driven insights.

About You

A resilient, values-led leader with senior experience in complex organisations, strong HR expertise, and a track record in transformation. Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is essential.

The diversity of its staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family-friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled, and LGBT staff, membership in the Athena SWAN, ECU Race Equality Charter, and Stonewall, as well as a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive work environment.

Employment Details

Seniority Level: Director

Employment Type: Full-time