Lead People & Culture Advisor

At Kirklees College we are always looking for new talent, and welcome applications from all sectors. Whether in a teaching & learning role or in one of our specialised Business Support functions, you’ll be involved in nurturing and developing the next generation of construction workers, engineers, health workers and countless others. We’re already a successful college, but we’re continually striving to be better and do better - be part of our story!

Join us at Kirklees College as our Lead People & Culture Advisor and play a crucial role in shaping our college’s future. It’s an exciting time to join as we redefine our people strategy. We want to welcome someone who is passionate about making a real difference to our college community and who wants to be at the front of trailblazing practice across the people profession.

We understand the role is broad, so we appreciate you may not have had experience across every area within HR. What matters most is your ability to add value, appetite to change and innovate, and your commitment to self‑development, so we can improve through a cycle of self‑improvement. We’re looking for someone who values self‑improvement and continuous learning, staying up to date with the latest skills and knowledge, from technical and digital to leadership and emotional literacy.

We are an ambitious department, eager to make a significant impact. As our Lead People & Culture Advisor, you will play a pivotal role in cultivating a culture defined by excellence, high aspirations, and accountability, all rooted in our core values of kindness, unity, and excellence. Your role is to ensure the effective delivery of your designated workstream, guided by restorative and trauma‑informed practices, with a focus on enhancing employee experiences and fostering a positive workplace culture.

The role involves leading a specific workstream across college: EDI, wellbeing, performance, and policy. It’s crucial to recognise that the focus area may change based on organisational needs and evolving priorities. This flexibility ensures a dynamic and adaptable approach to meet the evolving organisational demands.

Due to the nature of our work, it’s essential you’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Benefits:

• 40 days annual leave, inclusive of 25 bookable days, 10 Bank Holidays (two Tuesdays included) and additional closure days over Christmas.
• An enhanced pension plan.
• Our hybrid work model is non‑contractual, offering flexibility without compromising efficiency.

If you would like an informal chat about the opportunity, please contact Shanice Kaye.

We want people who believe in the value of education, and who can contribute to our culture of supporting and challenging one another.

Closing Date: Friday, 06 February 2026 (We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications)

Proposed Interview Date: Thursday, 12 February 2026

TO APPLY: Download and complete a copy of the Kirklees College Application Form before clicking “Apply” – you will need to attach your completed form as your application. If you have any queries about the role or the application process please contact us. Please check your emails regularly during the recruitment process (including spam and junk folders) as this is how you will be contacted once you have applied.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: As an employer we are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of an individuals’ sex, age, religion, race, marital status, disability status, sexual orientation, maternity or care leaver status. We are committed to exploring opportunities for flexible working and ensuring the work‑life balance and wellbeing of our workforce.

Please note that any job offer is subject to pre‑employment checks including a DBS check, online searches and references from former employers, in line with guidance from Department for Education.