Spotlight on... Rebecca Edwards

What is your role and what does it involve?

I am the Director of Employee Relations, Policy and Planning, and I am responsible for Employee Relations across UCL, as well as building, managing, implementing and continuously improving a policy framework which supports our people to do their best work. My role also involves promoting policies which are inclusive and support the development of high performing teams and individuals across the institution.

I am responsible for improving and maintaining key relationships with the Unions, as well as for managing employment risk through fair and consistent case management. I also support the Chief People Officer in leading the people agenda across UCL and ensuring that the work of the HR Division is strategic, effective and coordinated.

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

I have been at UCL since September 2018. Prior to this, I worked at Anglian Water – a utilities company – as Employee Relations Manager.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the Personnel Security Strategic Plan I wrote and implemented whilst working at Anglian Water. This work involved working closely with MI5 and other utility companies to review potential risks that the company could face that were linked to counter-terrorism.

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list?

I am currently working on a number of projects which will support with driving forward the HR Strategy as set out in the Draft Strategic Plan. This includes reviewing the current policy framework whilst considering how to best work across the institution to improve behaviours and culture.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

• Favourite album – I don’t have a favourite album as I enjoy all sorts of different music, but I do love a Musical!
• Favourite film – The Moulin Rouge.
• Favourite novel – I enjoy reading all sorts of different genres of books, but I do particularly enjoy a crime novel.

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

Why do melons have weddings? They cantaloupe.

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

William Shakespeare, Benedict Cumberbatch and Darcy Bussell.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t rush and enjoy the moment!

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I was almost a professional dancer and I still dance three times a week.

What is your favourite place?

Anywhere where I am with my two children.