HR Business Partner Jobs in the UK (No ghost jobs, direct from employers)

We are looking for an experienced and collaborative HR professional to join the University of Cambridge as an HR Business Partner.

As a trusted adviser to managers and senior leaders, you will play a key role in shaping and delivering people-focused solutions, translating strategic objectives into practical, evidence-based HR interventions that support organisational success.

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

You will work in partnership with managers across the University to provide expert HR advice on a wide range of people matters, including employee relations, organisational change and workforce planning.

The role combines strategic insight with hands-on delivery, supporting managers to make informed decisions, manage risk, and deliver a positive and inclusive employee experience.

What you will be doing

• Providing expert HR advice and consultancy to managers and senior leaders
• Supporting employee relations casework and organisational change activity
• Delivering high-quality, customer-focused HR services
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders, including trade unions
• Coaching and developing managers to build people management capability
• Contributing to HR projects, policy development and service improvement

We are looking for someone who has

• Strong HR experience in a generalist or specialist role
• Experience advising and influencing managers on people matters
• Knowledge of employment law and employee relations
• Strong communication, analytical and organisational skills
• A proactive, collaborative and solution-focused approach
• CIPD qualification or equivalent experience

Please review the 'Further Information' document for more details of the role and the skills we are seeking.

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

For this role, all applications will be managed by Spirehouse Recruitment. To apply, please send your CV to cambridge@spirehouse.co.uk

For further information about the role, please contact Abbie Carr (Executive Consultant), abbie@spirehouse.co.uk

Closing date: Wednesday 25 November 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.