Deadline: Monday, April 13, 2026
Salary: £75,716 pa
Location: Head Office, Salford Quays, M50 3XZ
The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is one of the UK's largest trade unions.
A vacancy exists for Head of Human Resources based at the Union’s Head Office. Please note that this position is fully office based.
There are no set hours for this position. The postholder will be expected to be adaptable and flexible to meet the needs of the job, which will include working outside of normal office hours and travelling to any part of the UK which may involve overnights at short notice.
A Union car will be provided, and applicants must hold a valid driving licence and are required to live within 50 miles of Head Office.
What we Offer:
• Defined contribution pension.
• Generous holiday entitlement – 24 days rising to 32 days plus bank and customary holidays (pro-rata to commencing month in holiday year and number of days a week worked).
• Free onsite parking, subject to availability.
• Free health assessments (post probation).
The Union does not currently offer sponsorship.
The principal duties of the post are: To direct and manage the work of the Human Resources Department ensuring the provision of a full and comprehensive Human Resources service to the Union. Providing a confidential support service to the Executive and Administration Officer on all matters relating to the employment of staff, policies and procedures and specialist confidential work on behalf of the Union’s Central Officials.
The successful applicant will possess: A degree in human resources, business administration or a related field and/or a professional relevant certification in HR (e.g. CIPD, SHRM, HRCI); progressive HR experience in a senior HR leadership role; experience in advising on the strategic direction of an HR function, including the development of HR policies and procedures on personnel-related issues such as performance management, recruitment and selection, grievance and disciplinary procedures, absence management, employment contracts, employment law and equal opportunities; experience in advising and managing grievance and disciplinary matters with proven ability of conducting investigatory, disciplinary and grievance meetings; ability to deal effectively with diverse and complex HR and employment law issues; ability to display leadership and direction under pressure and manage change; Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships and to motivate staff.
Interviews are expected to take place on Friday, 22 May 2026.
An application pack can be downloaded from here by clicking on the ‘apply’ button. Alternatively, please e-mail paula.o’[email protected] or telephone Paula O’Dowd on 0161 413 0902, quoting Ref: 950.
The closing date is noon on Monday, 13 April 2026.
CVs are not accepted. No agencies please.
Usdaw is an Equal Opportunities Employer.