Senior People Partner - Contract
  • Location Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
  • Posted 13th March 2026
  • Advertiser Hays - ANZ
  • 7 month fixed term contract
  • Immediate start
  • Sydney

Your new company

In this 7-month FTC, you will lead the Business Partnering team for an organisation that operates across the education sector. This organisation is a major Australian public research institution recognised globally for its academic excellence, large‑scale research capability and strong industry partnerships.

Your new role

As a Senior People Partner, you will act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders across the organisation, shaping people strategies that enable key strategic and operational priorities. You will lead high‑impact initiatives, drive organisational change, and uplift leadership capability across the organisation.

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You will:
  • Manage a team of 4 HR Business Partners
  • Partner with senior executives to co‑design and deliver people solutions aligned to strategic priorities.
  • Lead the resolution of complex and high‑risk people matters including performance, conduct, grievances and complaints.
  • Provide expert guidance on organisational change, including restructures, workforce transitions and enterprise‑wide transformation.
  • Collaborate closely with P&C enabling functions (Talent, Remuneration, Culture, Leadership Development) to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Mentor, guide and develop People Partners to build capability and deliver exceptional service.
  • Use workforce data and insights to inform strategic decisions and drive continuous improvement.
  • Support the development and delivery of P&C programs that enhance culture, leadership and employee experience.

What you'll need to succeed

  • A degree in HR (or related field) with significant HR leadership experience.
  • Previous experience managing a team of people partners
  • Deep employee relations and case management expertise, with a strong track record of managing complex and sensitive matters.
  • Demonstrated success partnering with senior stakeholders in complex, multi‑layered organisations.
  • Strong experience with organisational change and workforce planning.
  • Exceptional communication, influence and relationship‑building capabilities.
  • Experience coaching and developing HR professionals.
  • Ability to leverage HR data and insights to support strategic decision‑making.
  • A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset and adaptability in a fast‑changing environment.

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or email jessica.collinson@hays.com.au.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.


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