Head of HR and OD (12 month FTC)

Head of Human Resources & Organisational Development 12-Month Fixed-Term Contract

Location:

London, Euston

Lead the people agenda at one of the world's most influential architectural organisations.

At the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the global professional body for architecture, we're committed to creating an inclusive, collaborative and high-performing workplace that enables our colleagues to thrive and deliver real impact for our members and the wider profession.

We're looking for an experienced and inspiring Head of Human Resources & Organisational Development to join us on a 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting to the Executive Director of Corporate Services and as a member of our Senior Management Team, you'll shape and lead our people strategy during an exciting period of organisational change.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a senior HR leader who enjoys combining strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery and wants to make a lasting impact on organisational culture, leadership and employee experience.

You’ll lead our HR and Organisational Development function, ensuring our people strategies, policies and services enable RIBA to attract, develop and retain talented colleagues.

You’ll provide strategic leadership across:

• HR and Organisational Development strategy
• Business partnering and organisational design
• Talent attraction, development and succession
• Employee engagement and culture
• Learning and leadership development
• Performance management
• Employment law, HR policy and employee relations
• Health, safety and well‑being

You’ll also play a key role in delivering the people aspects of our House of Architecture Programme, helping to shape modern, flexible ways of working and ensuring RIBA continues to be a great place to work.

You’ll be an accomplished HR leader with the credibility to influence senior stakeholders and the practical experience to turn strategy into action.

You’ll bring:

• Fellow CIPD qualification (or equivalent senior HR experience)
• Significant experience leading HR and organisational development functions
• A successful track record of delivering organisational and cultural change
• Strong employment law knowledge and commercial judgement
• Experience advising Executive teams, Boards and Committees
• Outstanding communication, influencing and leadership skills
• The ability to inspire teams while remaining pragmatic and hands‑on

Experience with in a charity, membership organisation or not‑for‑profit environment would be an advantage but isn't essential.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of our organisation through our people. You’ll join a passionate and collaborative team, influence decisions at the highest level and help create an inclusive, innovative and high‑performing culture that supports our long‑term ambitions.

If you’re looking for a role where you can combine strategic leadership with meaningful organisational impact, we’d love to hear from you.

The interview process will be a two stage process, with the first interviews taking place on Wednesday 19th August, in‑person, in the London offices.