HR Services Manager

HR Services Manager (Maternity Cover)

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton

Fixed Term Appointment (14 Months)

Full time (37 hours per week)

£43,703 - £47,941

Please note, we are expecting a high volume of applications and may close the advert early. We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible.

Who are we?

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK's leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.

The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.

Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and engaging professional to join our dynamic HR team at the NOC on a 14-month fixed-term maternity cover appointment. In this role, you will shape and deliver an exceptional HR service that supports the People and Culture strategy. You will lead our HR Staff Hub, ensuring a responsive and high-quality first point of contact for staff across the organisation.

We are looking for someone who enjoys working collaboratively, thrives in a busy environment, and takes pride in providing an excellent service. This is a great opportunity to mane a real impact while gaining valuable experience in a diverse and supportive team.

About you

Applicants should be qualified to CIPD Level 5 or have equivalent professional experience. We are seeking someone with comprehensive knowledge of HR services aligned to the employee lifecycle, supported by a strong understanding of HR systems, functionality and processes.

You will have proven experience in managing, motivating and developing teams, providing clear vision and direction. The ability to build and maintain effective working relationships, always seeking ways to go the extra mile will be essential. A pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to problem solving is vital, as is the ability to assess and analyse challenges and opportunities using innovative thinking. Excellent communication skills are required.

Working at the NOC is incredibly rewarding; we offer the opportunity to work both in the office and remotely throughout the week, within a supportive, encouraging and flexible environment.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays

• a 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)

• financial support for relocation

• access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues

• access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards

• a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories

• a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations

• we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer

Location

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.

We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.

Submitting an application

Please click 'Apply for this job' and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at /

Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 19/11/2025

Closing date: 10/12/2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.