Interim Director of People & Culture

Job Description

Interim Director of People & Culture

  • Contract: 6 months fixed term
  • Hours: 37.5 hours per week 
  • Location: Oxford is the primary location, with some opportunity for hybrid working
  • Salary: £80,000 per annum
  • Closing date: 12th June 2026 12 noon 

Help shape the future of the world’s first children’s hospice and make a lasting different to local families.

We are seeking an experienced Interim Director of People & Culture to join our Executive Team during a significant period of organisational change.

This is a unique opportunity to shape our people strategy, culture and organisational design while ensuring we continue to deliver compassionate, high-quality services to those who need us most.

The role:

Reporting to the CEO and as part of the Executive Team, you’ll lead the People function through a period of organisational change.

  • Lead and deliver key organisational change, including operating model and workforce reviews.
  • Develop and embed a clear, valued-led culture and people strategy.
  • Act as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Executive Team and Board, providing expert insight on people, culture and organisational design.
  • Ensure effective, compliant people practices while strengthening capability across staff and volunteers.

Who we’re looking for:

You are a credible, experienced people leader who delivers impact at pace.

  • Director level experience in HR/People/Organisational Development with complex environments.
  • Proven track record of leading transformation and shaping organisational culture.
  • Strong employment law expertise with the ability to influence at Executive and Board Level.
  • CIPD Level 7, CIPD Chartered Membership or equivalent (CIPD Chartered Fellow desirable).
  • A pragmatic, collaborative and values led approach.

Apply today and play a key role in shaping a strong and sustainable future for Helen & Douglas House and the families we support.

Please note that everyone working for Helen & Douglas House are required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Helen & Douglas House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and value the benefits of a diverse workforce. We positively encourage applications from all areas of the community.

Please contact recruitment@helenanddouglas.org.uk if you require any adjustments during the recruitment process.

What you'll earn (you won't find "competitive salary” written instead of a figure on our watch!)

£80,000 per annum

What you'll receive in return (Benefits)

  • Generous holiday allowance
  • Personal and professional development
  • Employee Assistance Programme in partnership with Health Assured.
  • In-house cafe with home-cooked meals and fresh fruit.

Full benefits:

Benefits

CIPD Requirement

Level 7 Required

Email Contact for candidates

recruitment@helenanddouglas.org.uk

Closing Date

12/06/2026