At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and build robust workforce practices across our schools.
- Company: Cheshire Academies Trust, dedicated to educational excellence and workforce development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional growth opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative role with direct access to the Board and Executive Team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education by shaping HR practices for diverse teams.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 qualified with senior HR experience in complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
The People Director will be the Trust's expert voice on workforce matters, working at a senior level across the central team to build the HR infrastructure, data capability, and employment practice that our schools and our ambitions require.
You will work under the direction of the Chief Finance and Operations Officer (CFOO), engaging closely with Executive Team colleagues and our Headteachers. You will have direct access to the Board on matters of employment risk and governance.
This is a role for someone who can operate strategically and hands-on in equal measure, someone who takes genuine satisfaction in building something properly.
You'll be an experienced HR professional, ideally CIPD qualified to Level 7, with a track record of operating at a senior level in a complex, multi-site organisation. Experience in an education or public sector setting is advantageous, but what matters most is that you understand the realities of managing employment matters across a dispersed workforce with varied terms and conditions.
You'll be confident across the full range of HR practice: employee relations, recruitment, workforce planning, policy development, pay and reward, and absence management. You'll have personally managed complex casework, including disciplinary, grievance and capability, and you'll know when to advise, when to act and when to bring in specialist support.
People Director Employer: Cheshire Academies Trust Reference: CAT/26/337975 employer: Cheshire Schools
Cheshire Academies Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the development of its workforce and fosters a collaborative work culture. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the Trust offers opportunities for professional advancement while ensuring a supportive environment where your expertise in HR can make a significant impact across our schools. Located in a vibrant community, you will have the chance to shape the future of education while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic and rewarding setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People Director Employer: Cheshire Academies Trust Reference: CAT/26/337975
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a People Director role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your HR knowledge and the specific challenges faced in multi-site organisations. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to employee relations and workforce planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your strategic thinking! When discussing your experience, highlight how you've built HR infrastructure or improved employment practices in previous roles. This will demonstrate that you can operate at both a strategic and hands-on level.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Cheshire Academies Trust team.
We think you need these skills to ace People Director Employer: Cheshire Academies Trust Reference: CAT/26/337975
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the People Director role. Highlight your HR expertise, especially in areas like employee relations and workforce planning, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect candidate. Don’t forget to mention your experience in managing complex casework!
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically while also being hands-on. We want to see examples of how you've built HR infrastructure or improved employment practices in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cheshire Schools
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on all aspects of HR practice, especially employee relations and workforce planning. Be ready to discuss your experience with complex casework and how you've handled various employment matters in the past.
✨Show Your Strategic Side
This role requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on management. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to operate at both levels, particularly in building HR infrastructure and data capability.
✨Understand the Education Sector
If you have experience in education or the public sector, highlight it! If not, do some research on the unique challenges faced by schools and how HR practices can be tailored to meet those needs.
✨Engage with the Executive Team
Since you'll be working closely with the CFOO and other executives, think about how you can demonstrate your collaborative skills. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully engaged with senior leadership in previous roles.
