Director of People and Operations

Director of People and Operations

Full-Time 91750 £ / year Home office (partial)
Day One Trust

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the people strategy and operational functions to support exceptional outcomes for young people.
  • Company: Join Day One Trust, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making a difference.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 40 days annual leave, and a hybrid working model.
  • Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • Why this job: Shape organisational culture and make a real impact on the lives of young people.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in HR and operations, with a passion for youth development.

Reports to: CEO, Day One Trust

Salary: £85,000 to £98,500 (depending on experience)

Contract: Full time, permanent

Location: Hybrid, across ELAM and LSA

Working pattern: Hybrid, with regular presence across ELAM and LSA

Holiday: 40 days annual leave

As Director of People and Operations, you will lead the Trust's people strategy and operational functions, ensuring that our staff, systems and environments enable exceptional outcomes for young people. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will play a central role in shaping organisational culture, workforce strategy and operational effectiveness across the Trust. This is a Trust-level role combining strategic leadership with operational oversight.

You will be responsible for all aspects of People and HR, while providing leadership and accountability for Estates and IT. The role is not expected to be the technical expert in estates management or IT infrastructure. Instead, you will ensure appropriate systems, partners, processes and governance are in place to deliver effective, compliant and high-quality services.

Director of People and Operations employer: Day One Trust

Day One Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff, offering a generous 40 days of annual leave and a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. With a strong focus on shaping organisational culture and workforce strategy, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people while enjoying a supportive and collaborative work environment. The Trust's commitment to operational excellence and employee development makes it an attractive place for those seeking a rewarding career in leadership.

Day One Trust

Contact Details:

Day One Trust Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of People 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 Day One Trust!

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 Day One Trust.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of People and Operations

Strategic Leadership
Operational Oversight
People Strategy Development
HR Management
Organisational Culture Shaping
Workforce Strategy
Stakeholder Engagement

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 Day One Trust. 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 Day One Trust 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 Day One Trust. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.

Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Day One Trust'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 Day One Trust

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 Day One Trust.

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 Day One Trust 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 Day One Trust and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.