HR Cluster Manager in Ilford

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Cluster HR Manager to lead the delivery of high-quality HR services across our academy cluster.

Working closely with the Executive Business Manager, Principals and HR colleagues, you will provide expert HR advice and ensure the effective management of all operational HR activities.

This is an exciting opportunity for an HR professional who enjoys building strong relationships, leading a team and driving continuous improvement.

As a newly created role, there is significant opportunity to shape and develop the position while supporting our academies to deliver outstanding outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the cluster HR team, providing coaching, mentoring and professional development.
• Provide expert advice to leaders on employment matters, HR policies and employment legislation.
• Manage employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, absence, probation and performance matters.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, contract changes and leaver processes.
• Support recruitment and retention strategies across the academy cluster.
• Ensure HR records, documentation and data are accurate, secure and compliant with GDPR and statutory requirements.
• Maintain and audit the Single Central Record across all academies.
• Produce and analyse HR reports and metrics to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Lead the annual pay review administration and statutory workforce data submissions.
• Support organisational change projects and promote best practice across the cluster.
• Build positive relationships with academy leaders, colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Travel between academies within the cluster and other United Learning locations as required.

Requirements

We're looking for someone who has

• CIPD Level 5 qualification (or working towards it) or equivalent HR experience.
• At least three years' experience in an HR management role.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Experience managing employee relations casework.
• Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills.
• Experience leading and developing an HR team.
• The ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• A collaborative, proactive and solutions-focused approach.
• Experience working within education is desirable but not essential.

Benefits

In return, we offer

• A varied and rewarding leadership role within a supportive academy trust.
• The opportunity to shape a newly created position.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• A collaborative and values-driven working environment.
• Opportunities to work closely with senior leaders across multiple academies.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Generous annual leave and pension scheme (where applicable).
• Join Us

If you are an experienced HR professional looking for an opportunity to make a real impact across a growing academy cluster, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us create an outstanding environment where colleagues can thrive and students can achieve their full potential