At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and operations to support a dynamic children's charity making a real difference.
- Company: One of the largest mental health service providers for schools in Greater London.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension contributions, health plan, hybrid working, and CPD opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours, lovely office location, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and wake up knowing you're helping children and families thrive.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 or equivalent senior HR experience, with strong people management skills.
We are one of the largest providers of mental health services to schools in Greater London. We also provide high quality early years education and family support, including offering emergency assistance for families in crisis. This work makes a real difference to thousands of children and families each year.
Our values
We work with people of all faiths and none; our sole aim is to help those in greatest need so they can overcome the challenges they face and achieve their potential. Our work is underpinned by our core values of integrity, compassion, inclusion and partnership.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Senior Management Team (SMT) of a dynamic and growing children’s charity as Head of Human Resources and Operations, taking on a critical leadership role to support the next phase of our development. Working closely with the SMT as trusted advisor and most senior HR professional, you will provide strategic and operational advice, guidance and support to the organisation on all people related practices.
What we are looking for
- A CIPD Level 7 qualification, or equivalent demonstrable senior HR experience.
- A strong track record of working successfully within a senior HR role.
- Initiative, creativity and a proactive approach.
- Excellent interpersonal and people management skills.
What you will get in return
- Generous annual leave allowance of 35 days p.a. plus bank holidays (pro rata)
- 11% employer pension contribution
- Access to a staff Health Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
- Hybrid working options.
- CPD opportunities.
- The opportunity to wake up each morning and feel you are making a positive difference.
Salary £60,000 - £65,000 p.a. pro rata (£36,000 - £39,000 for three days per week).
Hours Three days per week (21 hours), with flexibility to spread hours across the full working week if preferred.
Location Lovely office at 73 St Charles Square, London. W10 6EJ (private off-street parking is available for staff), with hybrid working options.
How to apply
A full job description is attached. Please apply using the 'Apply Now' button and include your CV and cover letter. Please ensure your cover letter is concise (max. two sides of A4) and clearly set out why your skills and experience make you suitable for this role and what motivated you to apply.
CLOSING DATE: Monday 6th July 2026, 9am
INTERVIEW DATE: Week commencing 13th July 2026
Please be aware that due to the high volume of applications, feedback will not be provided for candidates who are not shortlisted.
Further information
CCS is an inclusive employer and we aim to have a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of the communities we service. There is no requirement for our staff to be Catholic and we encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds. We are committed to safer recruitment and maintaining a strong and positive safeguarding culture. This post will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. References from current/past employers will also be sought once an offer has been made.
Head of HR and Operations employer: Catholic Children's Society
As one of the largest providers of mental health services to schools in Greater London, we pride ourselves on our commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families. Our inclusive work culture fosters integrity, compassion, and partnership, while offering generous benefits such as 35 days of annual leave, an 11% employer pension contribution, and opportunities for professional development. Join us in a rewarding role where you can truly make a difference in your community, all from our lovely office in London with flexible hybrid working options.
Contact Details:
Catholic Children's Society Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR and Operations
✨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 Catholic Children's Society!
✨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 Catholic Children's Society.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR and Operations
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 Catholic Children's Society. 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 Catholic Children's Society 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 Catholic Children's Society. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Catholic Children's Society'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 Catholic Children's Society
✨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 Catholic Children's Society.
✨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 Catholic Children's Society 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 Catholic Children's Society and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
