At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the people agenda and enhance the employee experience at Rape Crisis South London.
- Company: Join a specialist charity dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual violence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: This role is open to female applicants only, fostering a trauma-informed workplace.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of organisational change and create a positive impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in HR, experience with unions, and a passion for inclusive culture.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
£60k - £70k (hybrid working, with at least 3 office-based days per week)
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. We are laying the foundations for a bold new organisational strategy. As a specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs, we provide counselling, group therapy, advocacy, casework, prevention education, and professional training. With an annual income of approximately £4 million, we are growing and strengthening our infrastructure to better serve survivors and communities.
This is an exciting and career‑defining opportunity to lead the people agenda at RCSL and to ensure an exceptional people experience across the charity. We want People & Culture to be a strategic enabler of broader organisational change, and we see this role as being at the heart of that transformation.
You will lead on the development of a class‑leading people function, so that we continue to attract, develop and engage the brilliant staff who enable us to support survivors. It is a complex role in an organisation that is on an ambitious journey, and we expect candidates to bring an impressive track record of leading a comparable portfolio.
Specific experience of embedding high‑quality employment practice, working collaboratively with unions, and building a strong, inclusive culture is essential. You will be able to demonstrate an ability to set a clear vision, rapidly gain the trust and support of colleagues, and lead through change with assurance and resilience. Experience of working in a trauma‑informed culture, and knowledge of coaching techniques, would be a definite advantage.
This post is open to female applicants only, as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.
Closing date: 23:59, 12 July 2026
Director of People employer: Cadence Partners
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, RCSL offers unique opportunities to lead transformative change within the charity sector while making a meaningful impact on the lives of survivors of sexual violence. The hybrid working model, combined with a commitment to fostering a trauma-informed culture, ensures that employees can thrive both personally and professionally in a collaborative and empowering atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People
✨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 Cadence Partners!
✨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 Cadence Partners.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People
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 Cadence Partners. 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 Cadence Partners 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 Cadence Partners. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Cadence Partners'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 Cadence Partners
✨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 Cadence Partners.
✨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 Cadence Partners 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 Cadence Partners and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
