At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic HR initiatives to create high-performing and inclusive workplaces.
- Company: Join an outstanding college committed to employee development and diversity.
- Benefits: Generous pension, flexible working, staff discounts, and professional training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a sustainability agenda aiming for net zero environmental impact.
- Why this job: Shape organisational culture and drive transformation in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience with a focus on strategy and talent management.
The predicted salary is between 53749 - 60502 € per year.
Do you have the right skills and experience for this role? Read on to find out, and make your application.
Full time, 37 hours per week
Salary: £53,749 - £60,502 per annum
Burton on Trent, Town Centre Campus
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking an exceptional and forward-thinking Director of People & Performance to lead our People & Performance function at a strategic level. This is a pivotal leadership role for an experienced senior HR professional who is passionate about creating high-performing, inclusive and engaged workplaces. You will play a key role in shaping organisational culture, leading workforce transformation and ensuring we attract, develop and retain outstanding talent.
You will provide strategic leadership across the full employee lifecycle, driving innovation in recruitment, talent management, organisational development, employee relations, performance and workforce planning. You will also hold overall responsibility for the outsourced payroll function, ensuring an efficient, accurate and compliant service.
Working closely with senior leaders across the College, you will act as a trusted strategic partner, bringing insight, challenge and expertise to support organisational priorities and long-term success.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the People & Performance service as a strategic enabler of College priorities
- Develop and deliver an ambitious People Strategy aligned to workforce planning, succession and organisational goals
- Drive organisational design, change and transformation programmes
- Lead innovative recruitment and talent strategies to attract diverse, high-quality candidates
- Embed a strong talent management and leadership development framework
- Build leadership capability through effective business partnering, coaching and challenge
- Champion a high-performance, inclusive and values-driven culture
- Lead employee engagement, wellbeing and attendance strategies
- Oversee complex employee relations matters, restructures, consultation and organisational change
- Maintain effective trade union relationships and partnership working
- Ensure compliant, efficient and high-quality HR operations
- Hold overall strategic and operational responsibility for payroll, ensuring accurate, timely and compliant delivery
- Oversee workforce systems, people data and reporting to drive continuous improvement and informed decision-making
About you
We are looking for a credible and strategic senior leader with:
- Significant experience in senior HR leadership roles, with a strong focus on strategy, transformation and talent
- A track record of delivering organisational change, workforce planning and people strategy
- Strong recruitment, organisational development and talent management expertise
- Experience of influencing and partnering with senior stakeholders and leaders
- Strong understanding of employment law, employee relations and HR governance
- Experience overseeing payroll or related operational functions
- A proactive, data-informed and solutions-focused approach
You will be:
- Strategic, commercially aware and outcome-focused
- A confident and credible leader who can influence, challenge and inspire
- Collaborative, inclusive and values-driven
- Passionate about creating positive workplace cultures and enabling organisational success
If you are viewing the advert via a 3rd party job board, please visit the 'Work for us' page on the BSDC website for the full job advert and job description.
Why come and work for us?
Burton and South Derbyshire College is an Ofsted outstanding College. We value our employees and have a number of additional benefits to offer the successful applicant:
- Generous pension schemes for academic and support staff
- Generous holiday plans
- Salary sacrifice holiday purchase scheme
- Free Employee Assistance Programme
- Flexible working policies
- Competitive maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Excellent staff training programme, including two staff development days per year
- On-site nursery with Good Ofsted rating
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Free annual eye tests
- Access to our onsite gym
- Staff discounts at our fine dining restaurant, The Mulberry, our Mulberry Bistro and Innovations Hair and Beauty salon
- Reward and recognition through our Employee of the Month scheme
- Discounted health cash plan
- BHN Extras discount scheme
Burton and South Derbyshire College are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture and you should share those values. We would welcome applications from all candidates, including under-represented groups in respect of age, disability, sex, gender or gender identity, ethnicity, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender status which would reflect our diverse community.
The College is registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service and the successful applicants for this post will be required to apply for the Disclosure at the enhanced level. In addition, internet searches will be undertaken in accordance with the KCSIE guidance. The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
We are committed to a sustainability agenda and are working hard towards achieving a net zero environmental impact. We aim to embed this in our culture with our staff, learners, visitors and suppliers all expected to show dedication towards reducing our carbon footprint.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 12 noon, Friday 5th June 2026 with the intention to interview on 23rd and 24th June 2026. Please see our 'Work For Us' page on the College website for more information on how to complete the application.
Director of People & Performance in Stoke-on-Trent employer: Burton and South Derbyshire College
Burton and South Derbyshire College is an outstanding employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. With a strong commitment to creating an inclusive and high-performing workplace, employees benefit from generous pension schemes, flexible working policies, and extensive training opportunities. Located in the vibrant town centre of Burton on Trent, the College fosters a supportive culture that values diversity and encourages personal growth, making it an ideal place for passionate HR professionals to thrive.
Contact Detail:
Burton and South Derbyshire College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Performance in Stoke-on-Trent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. This will help you tailor your responses and show how you can contribute to creating a high-performing, inclusive workplace.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for people and performance in a way that aligns with the college's goals. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Performance in Stoke-on-Trent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Director of People & Performance. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, share examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and drive change, so let us know how you’ve done that before!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are beyond just your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This way, we can ensure your application is reviewed properly and you don’t miss out on any important details!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burton and South Derbyshire College
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the college's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their culture and strategic goals will help you align your experience with what they’re looking for in a Director of People & Performance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it fosters high-performing, inclusive workplaces. Use specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led change or developed talent, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Engage with Insightful Questions
Think of thoughtful questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking. Ask about their current challenges in workforce planning or how they envision the future of employee engagement at the college. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also in contributing to their success.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since the role requires a proactive, data-informed approach, be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive HR decisions in the past. Highlight any metrics or outcomes that showcase your impact on organisational performance and employee satisfaction.
