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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead talent strategy, oversee recruitment and development, and shape future talent across the UK and US.
- Company: Join a premium, purpose-led education brand redefining early years education globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus, stock options, and hybrid working model.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique mission to transform education while working in a dynamic, values-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fast-paced, multi-site organisations with a focus on talent acquisition and development.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence and innovate in a rapidly scaling company backed by private equity.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
I am proud to be partnering with a premium, purpose-led education brand which is scaling rapidly, in both the UK and the US. Backed by private equity and committed to quality over quantity, they are building something unique in the early years education sector.
With a focus on curriculum, environment, nutrition, and people, my client is redefining what outstanding early years education looks like globally. They are now looking for a Head of Talent Management to lead their growing team and shape the future of talent across the UK and US footprint.
The Role
This role oversees both Talent Acquisition and Talent Development, with two direct reports. You will lead the talent strategy end-to-end - from resourcing and leadership development to mobility and succession planning.
You will be responsible for:
- Connecting the dots across recruitment, development, secondments, and internal mobility.
- Evolving the leadership development and future talent strategy (including apprentices and graduates).
- Building and scaling the casual workforce model - similar to an internal agency or 'bank'.
- Defining and embedding the Employer Value Proposition (EVP) in partnership with marketing and brand.
- Challenging current thinking and bringing fresh perspectives to build a truly differentiated talent approach.
- Driving talent consistency across UK and upcoming US sites as they scale globally.
Essential Criteria
- Experienced in multi-site, fast-paced, and scaled organisations - such as education, retail, hospitality, or healthcare.
- A strategic leader across both Talent Acquisition and Talent Development - you understand how the two connect.
- Proven in leadership recruitment, succession planning, and internal mobility frameworks.
- Comfortable with rapid change, ambiguity, and the pace of a PE-backed business.
- A hands-on, visible leader, equally comfortable with senior stakeholders and front-line teams.
- Values-driven, collaborative, and excited by the challenge of scaling while maintaining excellence.
- Able to embrace tech and work closely with offshore teams to drive efficiency and innovation.
Head of Talent employer: Oakleaf Partnership
Contact Detail:
Oakleaf Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Talent
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in talent management. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in talent acquisition and development.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities in early years education. Understanding the nuances of this sector will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the company's mission and values during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative talent strategies that you've implemented in previous roles. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully connected talent acquisition with talent development, as this is a key focus for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your adaptability and comfort with change by sharing experiences where you've thrived in fast-paced environments. Highlight your ability to lead teams through transitions while maintaining a focus on quality and excellence.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Talent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Talent position. Understand the key responsibilities and essential criteria, and think about how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in talent acquisition and development. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic leadership skills and ability to manage multi-site operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your passion for education and commitment to quality. Mention how you can contribute to evolving the leadership development strategy and enhancing the Employer Value Proposition.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, emphasise your hands-on leadership approach and your ability to work collaboratively with both senior stakeholders and front-line teams. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated change in fast-paced environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakleaf Partnership
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Head of Talent, it's crucial to demonstrate your strategic thinking. Prepare to discuss how you would connect talent acquisition and development, and share examples of how you've successfully implemented similar strategies in the past.
✨Emphasise Your Experience with Rapid Change
Given the fast-paced nature of the role, be ready to talk about your experience in multi-site organisations and how you've navigated rapid changes. Highlight specific instances where you've thrived in ambiguity and adapted quickly.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This role requires a hands-on leader who can engage with both senior stakeholders and front-line teams. Prepare anecdotes that showcase your leadership style and how you've built strong relationships across different levels of an organisation.
✨Align with Their Values
The company is values-driven, so it's important to align your personal values with theirs. Research their mission and vision, and be prepared to discuss how your values resonate with their commitment to quality and excellence in early years education.
