At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a people strategy for a growing educational Trust.
- Company: Join a dynamic Trust focused on community and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to shape the future.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting journey as we expand our schools.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while supporting staff and students.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 or equivalent, with senior HR leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Overview
The Trust seeks an exceptional HR and Communications professional for the newly created Director of People role. This is a rare opportunity to join us at a defining moment in our journey. With only two secondary schools currently, the Trust plans significant growth over the next two years and needs a leader who can build a robust people infrastructure to support this expansion, ensuring we remain "Better, Together" as our community grows.
Responsibilities
- This strategic and hands‑on leadership role requires the development of a Trust‑wide People Strategy that supports current staff and facilitates upcoming growth and transformation.
- You will lead workforce planning, organisational design and HR compliance, ensuring new schools are integrated seamlessly into a culture where every colleague feels valued and empowered.
- As a visible, influential leader you will directly impact the experience of all colleagues, from long‑term staff to new hires.
Qualifications & Experience
- CIPD Level 7 qualification (or equivalent) or a willingness to gain the qualification swiftly.
- Senior HR leadership experience with a proven ability to manage organisational growth, TUPE transfers or multi‑site expansions.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, employee relations, policies, HR and communications best practice.
- Leadership experience in leading and managing change and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Sector knowledge in a Multi‑Academy Trust or education setting is desirable but not essential.
Achieve and Learn Trust - Director of People in Hale employer: Altrincham College
Achieve and Learn Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff, fostering a collaborative culture where every colleague feels valued and empowered. As we embark on an exciting journey of expansion, we offer unique opportunities for professional development and leadership in shaping our people strategy, making this a meaningful role for those passionate about education and community impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Achieve and Learn Trust - Director of People in Hale
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Altrincham College!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Altrincham College.
We think you need these skills to ace Achieve and Learn Trust - Director of People in Hale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Altrincham College. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Altrincham College and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Altrincham College. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Altrincham College's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Altrincham College
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Altrincham College.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Altrincham College will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Altrincham College and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.