Director of People ID-1536
Job overview
Job title: Director of People
Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience
Location: South Downs Education Trust, Worthing High School, South Farm Road, Worthing BN14 7AR. Principally based at South Downs Education trust c/o Worthing High School but opportunity to work remotely and within partner schools
Contract: Full-time, Fixed term, an opportunity for flexible working - under constant review.
Reports to: Chief Finance and Operations Officer and ultimately Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
We are seeking a candidate who:
- Can provide leadership on the Trust’s HR function and its future development
- Can demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Is proactive and shows exceptional organisational and time management skills
- Shows a meticulous attention to detail
- Can provide professional support and guidance to School Leaders, continuing to enable the Trust to operate at a high standard
- Has a CIPD Level 7 qualification (or willingness to undertake the training) and suitable Human Resources experience
Job purpose:
The Director of People will lead the Trust’s HR function, ensuring effective management of all people-related processes and strategies. This pivotal role involves cultivating a positive, inclusive, and high-performing culture across all schools in the Trust, particularly during our expansion phase.
The role will require adaptability to address both strategic and immediate HR concerns, from advising on sensitive staff matters to planning trust wide initiatives. Due to our small size, the people manager can adopt a highly personalised approach, working closely with school leaders to understand and address unique challenges.
The role is currently advertised as fixed term but will be under constant review as our Trust seeks to grow and develop.
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Key responsibilities:
Strategic HR Leadership
- Working with the Trust Executive Team and Academy Leaders, develop, execute, and continuously improve the Trust’s people strategy, aligning it with our vision, values, and growth plans
- Provide strategic advice to the CEO and senior leadership team on all matters relating to workforce planning, organisational structure, and people management
- Lead the HR function in preparing for and successfully integrating new schools into the Trust
- Monitor and ensure compliance with employment legislation, safeguarding requirements, and HR policies across all schools
- Oversee the smooth running of HR administration functions in all Trust schools
Recruitment and Onboarding
- Design and implement innovative recruitment strategies to attract high-quality teaching, support, and leadership staff who align with the trusts values and vision
- Manage the entire recruitment lifecycle, from talent identification to appointment
- Develop onboarding programs that foster engagement and a strong understanding of the Trust’s strategic and operational direction
Employee Relations
- Act as the principal advisor on employee relations matters, including disciplinary processes, grievances, and conflict resolution
- Oversee staff absence procedures and management
- Foster a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, and equity across all schools
- Promote and embed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that align with the Trust’s strategic goals
Professional Development
- Identify skills gaps and coordinate comprehensive training and development programs tailored to staff needs
- Build programmes to retain and develop staff, implementing robust career progression pathways and succession planning strategies in line with the future strategic development of the Trust
- Facilitate professional development opportunities that empower staff to excel in their roles and prepare for future opportunities
- Help identify and nurture future leaders within the trust to ensure long term sustainability
Key skills and experience:
- Significant experience in a senior HR leadership role, ideally within an education, non-profit, or public sector environment
- Comprehensive knowledge of employment law, safeguarding requirements, and HR best practices
- A proven track record of managing organisational growth and change successfully
- Strong leadership and influencing skills, with the ability to engage and inspire stakeholders at all levels
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust quickly
- Demonstrated expertise in fostering inclusive and equitable workplace environments.
- A Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) qualification (Level 5 or higher) is desirable
About us:
South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is a dynamic and growing Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) committed to delivering exceptional educational outcomes across our schools. Currently comprising two schools, we have ambitious plans to expand by incorporating at least two additional schools in the near future. We are seeking a skilled and proactive People Manager to drive our people strategy and support our growth.
What we offer:
- A unique opportunity to shape the people strategy of a growing Multi-Academy Trust
- A collaborative and supportive working environment, with access to senior leadership and decision-making processes
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of staff and students
- Competitive salary package and benefits aligned with sector standards
- An opportunity for flexible working
Benefits:
- A friendly and supportive environment
- The opportunity to work with well-motivated students and supportive parents and staff
- A location on the coast very close to main line railway services and road networks
- Free well-being and medical support cover
- The opportunity to be part of the South Downs Education Trust MAT
- Free use of our fitness suite
