Head of HR, ROYAL Society

Job Scope

The Royal Society is a self‑governing Fellowship of distinguished scientists drawn from all areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine. The Society’s fundamental purpose is to recognise, promote and support excellence in science and to encourage the development and use of science for the benefit of humanity. The Society has played a part in some of the most fundamental, significant and life‑changing discoveries in scientific history and Royal Society scientists continue to make outstanding contributions to science across the wide breadth of research areas.

The Head of HR is a newly created role to join an established HR function of 8 staff within the Society and will report into the HR Director. As the organisation has grown significantly, the Head of HR will help to drive forward a high‑performing culture and support the Society’s plans to remain an inclusive and exciting workplace. The Head of HR will be responsible for the effective delivery of operational activities, oversee the provision of business‑partnering and expert advisory services and a full generalist HR brief.

Supporting the HR Director, the post holder will provide strategic, innovative and flexible HR solutions, oversee a variety of HR projects, promote and implement EDI initiatives and model strong leadership and management practices within the HR function and across the Society.

• Deliver operational HR activities and oversee the provision of business‑partnering and expert advisory services.
• Provide strategic, innovative and flexible HR solutions, overseeing a variety of HR projects.
• Promote and implement EDI initiatives to ensure the Society remains an inclusive workplace.
• Model strong leadership and management practices within the HR function and across the Society.
• Ensure expert advice on complex legal matters, understanding current employment trends and support the Society in being ready for future legislative changes.
• Oversee the recruitment cycle and may have ownership for senior roles on an ad hoc basis with support from the HR Director.
• Support the payroll and benefits function, review suppliers and relationships where necessary, and work closely with the HR Payroll and Data Manager and the HR Director on budget management and planning activities.
• Lead the team to deliver a cycle of work supporting corporate activities such as the Performance Lifecycle, Engagement and Wellbeing initiatives.

Reports to: HR Director

Line manages: 2× Senior HR Business Partners

Pay band: Band G

Salary: £75,000 – £85,000 per annum

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: 35 hours per week

Location: Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5AG
(option for some hybrid remote working)

Closing date for applications: Friday, 20 March 2026, 23:59 hours

Interviews will be held: First round – 26 March 2026;
Second round – 31 March 2026

Important: This role does not offer sponsorship.