Reward Manager

About the role

As our new Reward Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in defining and evolving how we recognise and reward our incredible people here at Imperial. Working closely with senior HR leaders, you’ll help build on our Total Remuneration Package (TRP) that is attractive, transparent, and equitable. You’ll be at the heart of developing innovative reward, recognition, and benefits policies that are both forward-thinking and financially sustainable. We want someone who can use their expertise and knowledge of the reward landscape to ensure Imperial remains competitive within the higher education sector and beyond.

This is a brilliant opportunity to shape what reward looks like at Imperial, and to make a lasting impact in a dynamic, values-led environment.

What you would be doing

In this role, you will project manage the development and integration of both new and existing rewards programmes, policies, and frameworks to ensure that they are competitive in the market and equitable within the organisation.

As the subject matter expert on all aspects of reward management, you will stay at the cutting edge of reward practice within the sector and beyond so that you can advise customers, colleagues, and senior management. You will manage a team of two and - in line with Imperial’s values - lead, develop, and team members to deliver our offer.

Your work will include overseeing key processes such as the annual pay award, reviewing and enhancing benefits, and communicating to the organisation - ensuring our staff community feel valued and rewarded. Additionally, the postholder will contribute to communication strategies, gather and analyse employee feedback, and support negotiations with trade unions to align reward initiatives with the university’s strategic objectives.

At Imperial we strive for a sector-leading employee experience and so you will be working closely with the Deputy Director of Employee Experience and Culture on the development of informal recognition initiatives to foster a culture of ongoing appreciation.

What we are looking for

• A background in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; CIPD membership is desirable.
• Proven experience in reward management, including developing and delivering effective reward strategies.
• Hands-on experience managing staff benefits programmes and working collaboratively with external vendors.
• A solid understanding of salary review processes and conducting pay surveys and benchmarking.
• Experience in designing and rolling out both formal and informal recognition initiatives.
• Confidence in analysing data and using metrics to assess the impact and effectiveness of reward programmes.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence at all levels.
• Up-to-date knowledge of current legislation and best practices in reward, recognition, and benefits.
• A clear commitment to embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of your work.

What we can offer you

Location South Kensington Campus (initially home based)

The salary for this position is £56,652 - £68,005 per annum

This is a permanent, full-time role but flexible working can be considered. 

Additional benefits include:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity by attracting world-leading talent.
• Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle--to-work scheme.

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