About UQU

The University of Queensland Student Union (UQU) is a not-for-profit organisation, independent of the University of Queensland that supports and represents the student community by actively promoting a positive, fun, healthy and supportive student Experience. This is a unique organisation, operating numerous food, beverage, entertainment and retail outlets on UQ campuses, as well as Student Advocacy and Support, and student clubs and societies at St Lucia and Gatton Campuses. UQU employs over 150 staff, a percentage of whom, being elected students, change annually.

Standout points:

Shape and transform the HR function at UQU

True generalist role with influence over strategy and operations;

Hybrid work & flexible working arrangements available

The Role

UQU is seeking an experienced People & Culture professional to lead and transform our HR function. As a key member of the senior management team, based at our St Lucia office, you will report directly to the General Manager and have strategic and operational oversight of the People & Culture function, with dedicated HR administrative support.

This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact by developing and refining key systems, processes, and strategies. With a focus on building trusted relationships at all levels, you will work in partnership with Student Executives, staff, and other key stakeholders to strengthen the culture and sustainability of UQU.

If you're a People & Culture Manager with generalist HR expertise who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys working across the employee lifecycle, we want to hear from you!

Key Details:

Permanent full-time (or 0.8 FTE for the right candidate)

Flexible working arrangements with a hybrid mode

Salary range: $120,000 - $130K (commensurate with experience)

Key Responsibilties:

Leadership & Transformation: Lead the development and transformation of a trusted HR function that aligns with UQU’s strategic objectives.

HR Systems & Processes: Oversee and enhance HR systems and processes across the employee lifecycle, from recruitment to performance management.

Strategic Planning: Develop and implement People & Culture strategies to drive initiatives across all business functions.

Recruitment & Onboarding:

Manage the recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes.

Contribute to strategic workforce planning and development.

Performance & Development:

Develop and implement performance strategies and programs, including annual performance reviews.

Coach supervisors and managers through the performance appraisal cycle.

Support training and development initiatives for staff at all levels.

Work Health & Safety (WHS):

Lead and promote WHS policies, ensuring compliance with legislative requirements.

Collaborate with the WHS Officer and Committee to ensure effective communication and enforcement of WHS procedures.

Oversee incident reporting and ensure timely escalation and resolution.

Oversee the delivery of training on safe work practices and integrate WHS with broader employee wellbeing initiatives.

Employee & Industrial Relations:

Manage employee and industrial relations matters, providing coaching and advice to supervisors and managers.

Handle employee complaints, grievances, and investigation processes.

Governance & Compliance:

Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations, managing HR policies and procedures.

Oversee HR administration, including documentation, contracts, and employee records within our HRIS (ELMO).

Culture & Engagement:

Foster a positive organisational culture that aligns with UQU’s values.

Develop and implement forward-thinking, inclusive employee engagement initiatives

About You:

To be successful in this role, candidates will have:

Proven experience (minimum of 5 years) as an HR/P&C Manager, in a standalone role or small team;

Demonstrated ability to identify, develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives across all business functions;

Demonstrated ability to manage complex employee and industrial matters;

Experience in enterprise bargaining negotiations and the creation of enterprise bargaining agreements (highly desired)

Keen eye for process and system evaluation, improvement and monitoring;

Passion and ability to guide and mentor junior staff;

Strong understanding of, and experience with, compliance with a range of regulatory frameworks

Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills – you're able to build and maintain strong, trusted working relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Strong problem-solving abilities with a strategic mindset

Proficiency in HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) software - ELMO preferred

Candidates should also possess a tertiary qualification in Business (HR), Business Administration, Law and/or related fields.

Prior experience in workforce planning, or organisational development and an understanding of hospitality and retail business operations and will be highly regarded.

Want to join our team?

Applications can be addressed to Clint Wooler, General Manager and should include your CV and cover letter addressing the above criteria.

If you have any questions, or would like to chat further about the role, please contact [email protected]

Why UQU?

Generous staff discounts across UQU food and beverage outlets;

Flexible working arrangements available.

This is a full-time position on a permanent contract. The position is based out of our office at UQ St Lucia, with occasional travel to other campuses within South-East Queensland required. Flexible working arrangements with a hybrid model are avaialble, following successful completion of probation. Occasional travel to other SEQLD campus locations may also be required

UQU employees enjoy a generous discount across UQU food and beverage outlets on campus, an EAP program with 6 sessions included per year, not-for-profit salary sacrificing packages, and numerous staff celebrations throughout the year.