People Policy Manager


Location
Docklands Campus, London
Hours
Full Time
Salary
£63,693 to £73,121 per annum inclusive of London Weighting
Contract Length
Fixed Term - 12 months
About the Role
You will be the University’s lead authority on People Policy governance, assurance and compliance. You will ensure our policies are fit for purpose, consistently applied and properly embedded. A key focus over the next year will be preparing the Policy Framework for the Employment Rights Act 2025, aligned to the Government’s phased commencement timetable.
You will:
- Own the People Policy Framework and lead the Policy Review Group, setting its forward plan and steering policies through review, consultation and approval
- Lead impact assessment, redrafting and consultation planning for the Employment Rights Act 2025
- Turn complex legal and regulatory requirements into clear, practical policies, toolkits, manager guides and FAQs
- Act as the escalation point for complex policy interpretation, including queries from outsourced service providers
- Develop compliance monitoring and reporting, and provide assurance to senior leaders and governance committees
- Prepare briefing papers, consultation documents and negotiation materials, and represent the University on the Joint Staff Consultation Negotiating Committee
- Work with the Global HR Manager to adapt UK policies for our global hubs
- Carry out Equality Impact Assessments to ensure policies are fair and inclusive
About the School / Service
Employee Relations & Policy is a specialist centre of expertise within the People & Culture directorate. It brings together strategic policy development, employee relations, case management, organisational change and trade union partnership working. The team aims to provide every employee with a positive and consistent experience, backed by clear, accessible and legally sound policies.
About the University
The University of East London (UEL), founded in 1898, is proud to change lives through education. Our goal is to advance industry 5.0 careers-first education and provide a clear path to future jobs and opportunities. We are committed to driving diversity in the 5.0 talent pipeline, working in partnership to promote talent wherever it is found and creating a balanced, inclusive, and green future. We are an inclusive and welcoming community, constantly moving forward and never satisfied with the status quo.
Experience
Extensive experience of developing and managing HR policy in a complex organisation
A track record of formal consultation and negotiation with recognised trade unions
Up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law, including the Employment Rights Act 2025
Strong project and stakeholder management skills
Experience in higher education, working with outsourced HR providers, or chairing cross-functional working groups would be an advantage
About you
Excellent drafting skills with the ability to simplify complex issues
Sound judgement to balance legal requirements with operational realities
Confidence to hold a position when necessary
Forward-thinking, innovative and curious mindset aligned with the University's values
Qualifications
Advanced CIPD qualification or equivalent experience











