At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the People strategy across 20 schools, making a real impact.
- Company: Join Discovery Trust, a purpose-driven multi-academy trust in Leicester.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, Local Government Pension Scheme, and attractive perks.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while empowering colleagues and students.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 qualified with executive HR experience in complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 100000 £ per year.
Salary £90,000-£100,000 plus Local Government Pension Scheme and attractive benefits.
About Discovery Trust: Discovery Trust is an innovative, high performing and purpose driven multi-academy trust working across the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland area. Across our growing family of 20 schools, we empower children and colleagues to realise their full potential and experience limitless learning. Being part of Discovery means playing your part, within an organisation that makes a lasting difference; a place where you can use your initiative, co‑create with brilliant people - and be yourself.
Role Overview: Discovery Trust is seeking an exceptional Chief People Officer to lead and develop our trust-wide People agenda during an exciting period of growth and development. As a key member of the executive team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the People strategy across our central team and our 20 academies. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be accountable for developing and delivering an innovative People strategy that aligns workforce planning, organisational culture, HR operations, recruitment, performance, wellbeing and leadership development. You will provide expert, trusted advice to the CEO, Board and committees.
Responsibilities:
- Embed openness, accountability and high performance across Discovery Trust.
- Operate and influence at scale, making a lasting impact on the lives of colleagues and children in a growing dynamic MAT.
Qualifications:
- Highly experienced People or HR leader, qualified to CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent).
- Proven track record of operating at executive leadership level in unionised organisations.
- Resilient, strategic leader, confident leading through growth, change and challenge.
- Executive HR experience within schools and MATs, or similar complex multi-site organisations.
Benefits: Local Government Pension Scheme and attractive benefits.
Safeguarding: Discovery Trust is strongly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be required to obtain an Enhanced Certificate of Disclosure from the Disclosure & Barring Service and go through a range of other Safer Recruitment checks.
Chief People Officer in Leicester employer: Discovery Trust
Discovery Trust is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, empowering its employees to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. With a strong commitment to professional development and a supportive environment, employees can thrive while contributing to a purpose-driven mission. The attractive benefits, including the Local Government Pension Scheme, further enhance the rewarding experience of being part of a dynamic multi-academy trust dedicated to limitless learning.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer in Leicester
✨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 Discovery 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 Discovery Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer in Leicester
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 Discovery 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 Discovery 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 Discovery Trust. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Discovery 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 Discovery 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 Discovery 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 Discovery 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 Discovery Trust and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
