Achieve and Learn Trust: Director of People in Altrincham

Our Trust is seeking an exceptional HR and Communications professional for the newly created role of Director of People. This is a rare opportunity to join us at a defining moment in our journey. With currently only two Secondary schools, the Trust has ambitious plans for significant growth over the next two years. We are looking for a leader who can build the robust people infrastructure required to support this expansion, ensuring we remain "Better, Together" as our community grows.

This is both a strategic and hands-on leadership role. You will be responsible for developing a Trust-wide People Strategy that not only supports our current staff but also facilitates our upcoming growth and transformation. As we scale up, you will lead on workforce planning, organisational design and HR compliance, ensuring that new schools joining the Trust are integrated seamlessly into a culture where every colleague feels valued and empowered. You will be a visible, influential leader, directly impacting the experience of every colleague, from those who have been with us for years to those joining us as part of our growth.

What We’re Looking For

• Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 qualification (or equivalent) or a willingness to gain the qualification swiftly.
• Experience: Senior HR leadership experience, with a proven ability to manage organisational growth, TUPE transfers or multi-site expansions.
• Expertise: Strong knowledge of employment law, employee relations, policies, HR and Comms best practice.
• Leadership: A track record of leading and managing change and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Sector Knowledge: Experience in a Multi-Academy Trust or education setting is desirable but not essential.

What the school offers its staff

• This is a great opportunity to shape a new central role during a period of intentional, strategic growth.
• You will be part of a collaborative Central Team that values innovation and professional excellence.
• A lead role in the strategic expansion of the Trust.
• A supportive and ambitious leadership team.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• A strong commitment to staff wellbeing and development.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).

Commitment to safeguarding

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), medical, online and social media prohibition from teaching, right to work, satisfactory references, suitability to work with children. You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.