Director of People & Culture
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- Employer:
- National Oceanography Centre (NOC)
- Location:
- Southampton / Hybrid. Occasional travel to Liverpool.
- Salary:
- £99,412 + benefits
- Closing date:
- Monday 7th July at 9am
- Job Ref:
- GSe122839
Description
Join the National Oceanography Centre to lead a people-first transformation at one of the world’s most innovative ocean research institutions.
Our aim at NOC is to build a world where everyone feels empowered and inspired to help our oceans thrive.
As one of the world leaders in marine science, we lead the UK’s National Capability in oceanography, manage Europe’s largest fleet of autonomous and robotic marine vehicles, and operate two state-of-the-art research ships, RRS Discovery and RRS James Cook. Through our trading subsidiary, NOC Innovations Ltd, we provide a vital link between science and business, enabling technology and research to transfer to industry.
An independent charitable organisation, we have a skilled and experienced Executive team and Board, supported by high calibre colleagues across Southampton, Liverpool and on our research ships. As we implement our ambitious 2025–2035 vision, we are seeking a visionary Director of People & Culture to lead a bold transformation of our people strategy.
This is not a conventional HR leadership role. As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will drive the evolution of our people function into a strategic powerhouse—building a high-performing, inclusive, and future-ready organisation.
You will lead culture transformation, champion leadership development, and embed innovative, data-driven people strategies that empower our diverse workforce to thrive.
What you’ll bring:
- Proven senior leadership experience in HR or People roles within complex organisations
- Expertise in organisational development, culture change, and strategic transformation
- Strong analytical and influencing skills, with the ability to engage executive teams and boards
- A passion for inclusive, values-led leadership and creating exceptional employee experiences
- Vision, solutions-based thinking and the ability to drive innovation
At NOC, our mission is to make sense of changing seas for the benefit of humanity. Our people are at the heart of this mission—and we are committed to building a culture that is innovative, diverse, and empowering. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are especially keen to hear from those in underrepresented groups.
If you’re inspired by science, sustainability, and shaping a vibrant organisational culture, we’d love to hear from you.
If you meet the criteria and would like to have a confidential discussion, please contact our retained partners at GatenbySanderson:
Jennie Wood, Lead Researcher, Not for Profit Practice jennie.wood@gatenbysanderson.com
Fiona Wansborough, Partner, Not for Profit Practice fiona.wansborough@gatenbysanderson.com
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How to Apply
- Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.
- Detail any employment or education gaps.
- Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.
- Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.
- Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation. If you do not receive, please email contactus@gatenbysanderson.com