At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the People Directorate and implement the Trust’s People Strategy across 15 schools.
- Company: Windsor Academy Trust is a values-driven multi-academy trust focused on unlocking potential for students and staff.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous pension schemes, and wellbeing perks like discounts and an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong strategic HR leadership experience; education sector experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Informal chats with the CEO are available before applying; applications close on 7th July.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Director of People role at GatenbySanderson
Join to apply for the Director of People role at GatenbySanderson
This job post will be advertised for a minimum period of two weeks on LinkedIn. After this time please apply directly to until the closing date of Monday 7th July.
Shape the Future of Education: Become Our Director of People
Windsor Academy Trust (WAT) is seeking an exceptional individual to join its Executive Team as Director of People. This is a unique opportunity to lead the People Directorate across a high-performing, values-driven multi-academy trust comprising 15 schools in the West Midlands. With over 1,200 staff and 10,000 students, WAT is committed to unlocking academic and personal potential for every learner.
The Director of People will play a pivotal role in delivering one of the five strategic ‘big moves’ of WAT’s strategy. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the successful candidate will lead the next stage and implementation of the Trust’s People Strategy. This includes overseeing HR, People Transformation, and Professional Learning, and ensuring alignment with the Trust’s broader organisational goals.
The role requires a visionary and ethical leader who is collaborative, courageous, and committed to social justice. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in strategic HR leadership, preferably within a multi-site or complex organisation. Experience in education or the public sector is desirable but not essential. The successful applicant will be a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, and will lead initiatives that promote staff wellbeing, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Windsor Academy Trust offers a dynamic and supportive working environment. Staff benefit from generous pension schemes, professional development through the WAT Talent Institute and the National Institute of Teaching Associate College, and a range of wellbeing and lifestyle benefits. These include an Employee Assistance Programme, cycle to work scheme, food and leisure discounts, and flexible working options.
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson: Julia Roberts and Jacqueline Lau at ( )
Closing date for applications: Monday 7th July
First stage interviews: 11th or 14th July
Final stage interviews: Tuesday 15th July
Informal conversations with CEO Dawn Haywood are available prior to the closing date.
Windsor Academy Trust is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Director
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Human Resources and Strategy/Planning
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Industries
Primary and Secondary Education and Education
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Director of People employer: GatenbySanderson
Contact Detail:
GatenbySanderson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those involved in HR and people management. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the specific challenges faced by multi-academy trusts.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Windsor Academy Trust's current People Strategy and any recent initiatives they have implemented. This will not only help you understand their goals but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their vision during informal conversations or interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your leadership style and how it aligns with the values of WAT. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams through change, particularly in areas like equity, diversity, and inclusion.
✨Tip Number 4
Take advantage of the opportunity for an informal conversation with the CEO, Dawn Haywood. This is a great chance to ask questions about the role and showcase your enthusiasm and understanding of the Trust’s mission and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of People role at Windsor Academy Trust. Familiarise yourself with their People Strategy and how it aligns with the organisation's goals.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in strategic HR leadership, particularly in multi-site or complex organisations. Emphasise any experience you have in education or the public sector, as well as your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your vision for the role and how your values align with those of Windsor Academy Trust. Discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully implemented people strategies in previous roles.
Prepare for Interviews: If selected for an interview, prepare by thinking about how you would address the challenges faced by the People Directorate. Be ready to discuss your approach to staff wellbeing and professional development, and how you would foster a collaborative environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Windsor Academy Trust's values and mission. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs will demonstrate your commitment to their vision and make you a more appealing candidate.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
As a Director of People, you'll be expected to think strategically. Prepare for questions that assess your ability to lead HR initiatives that align with organisational goals. Think about past experiences where you've successfully implemented strategies and be ready to discuss them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a visionary and ethical leader. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how it fosters collaboration, courage, and social justice. Use examples from your previous roles to illustrate how you've led teams effectively.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Windsor Academy Trust is focused on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Be ready to share your experiences and initiatives that promote these values in the workplace. This will show that you understand the importance of creating an inclusive environment for both staff and students.