Senior HR Business Partner

Who We Are

As Singapore's first institute for lifelong learning, the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) champions inclusivity to bring education to all and ensure that they are given equal opportunities to develop to their fullest potential in our diverse learning environment. We advocate for the same for our people. We believe everyone should have equal opportunities and develop to their fullest potential in their careers. Embark on an exciting lifelong journey with us in making a positive difference in your career and serving our society. For more information on Singapore University of Social Sciences, please visit www.suss.edu.sg

About the Job

The Senior HR Business Partner plays a pivotal role in partnering with Head of Departments (HODs) and line managers to provide strategic and operational HR support for staff within a university setting. You stand to influence HR practices and contribute to the development of staff engagement and performance within a dynamic academic environment. You will collaborate closely with various HR COEs to deliver tailored HR solutions, drive talent management initiatives, and foster a positive organizational culture.

What You Will Be Doing

Strategic HR Partnership

Proactively connect with respective business units with the aim to understand their business plan/objectives, people challenges and manpower needs to provide HR advice aligned with University goals.

Work closely with line managers to propose suggestions to improve work relationships, processes, and increase productivity and staff retention.

Build a strong, credible relationship with HR specialists, hiring managers, management and external partners on people matters, employee relations / grievances by serving as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert in different aspects of HR.

Be well-versed in HR policies and procedures to effectively support and advise line managers, ensuring consistent and compliant application across the university.

Ensure compliance with labour laws and provide guidance on related matters

Workforce Planning & Talent Management

Lead workforce planning exercises, including headcount forecasting, manpower optimisation, and budget alignment.

Advise on talent acquisition strategies for academic and professional staff, working closely with the Talent Acquisition team.

Support leadership on succession planning, leadership pipeline development, and critical role risk management.

Performance, Rewards & Employee Relations

Guide leaders on performance management, promotions, contract renewals, and rewards decisions in accordance with University frameworks and policies.

Provide advice on employee relations matters, including performance concerns, grievances, discipline, and staff well-being, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies.

Employee Lifecycle Management

Manage all stages of the employee lifecycle, from onboarding to performance management, employee relations, and exit management.

Conduct bi-monthly new hire orientation and support in related onboarding processes to ensure a positive employee experience for new hires.

Talent Development & Performance Management

Collaborate with HR Centres of Excellence (COE) to support faculty talent management, succession planning, and career development initiatives

Provide coaching to managers on effective performance management and facilitate constructive performance review conversations.

Partner the HODs/ cluster heads throughout the annual performance review process and offer insights during moderation discussions.

HR Project Implementation

Contribute to the development, review, and implementation of HR policies and frameworks.

Provide interpretation and guidance on HR policies to leaders and staff.

Other Duties

Perform other duties as assigned by the HR leadership team.

Job Requirements

• Degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, or related discipline.
• Postgraduate qualification or professional HR certification (e.g. IHRP, SHRM, CIPD) is preferred.
• Minimum 10–15 years of progressive HR experience, with significant experience in a HR Business Partner or strategic HR role
• Proven experience partnering senior leaders in a complex organisation; experience in higher education, public sector, or large institutions is an advantage.
• Sound knowledge of Singapore employment legislation and HR best practices.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels. Credible, confident, and collaborative partner to senior leaders.
• Sound analytics mind with the ability to translate strategy into practical HR solutions.
• High level of discretion, maturity, and judgment in handling sensitive matters.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and resilient with a problem-solving mindset and a strong ability to manage complex tasks independently.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks and priorities efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Resilient and adaptable in a dynamic and evolving university environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, with advanced Excel skills preferred.

What We Offer

At SUSS, we advocate the Spirit of Learning and pride ourselves as lifelong learners. You will gain access to various learning platforms and plenty of development opportunities to support your growth in a meaningful career!

Besides that, you will also get:

• Competitive Pay Package
• Hybrid Work Arrangement (Subject to Job Role)
• Medical Benefits
• Flex Benefits
• Family Care Leaves
• Volunteer Service Leaves
• Wellness & Recreation Activities
• Lifelong Learning Opportunities
• Career Development Opportunities through Internal Job Postings and Transfers