Director of People and Culture in City of London

Director of People and Culture in City of London

City of London Full-Time 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and shape the people strategy at a prestigious independent school.
  • Company: Latymer Upper School, a leading co-educational independent day school in Hammersmith.
  • Benefits: Impactful role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic community committed to educational excellence and social mobility.
  • Qualifications: Experienced HR leaders with a track record in cultural transformation and inclusive workplaces.
  • Other info: Be part of an innovative school shaping future generations.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.

Latymer Upper School is seeking an outstanding Director of People and Culture to lead and shape their people strategy at a pivotal point in the School’s development. A full member of the Senior Leadership Team, this is a senior, strategic role offering the opportunity to have a significant impact within one of the UK’s most successful academically ambitious and values‑led independent schools.

Latymer’s story spans more than 400 years. The Latymer Foundation was established in 1624 when Edward Latymer, a lawyer and philanthropist, endowed funds to provide clothing and education to “eight poore boyes” of Hammersmith. That ethos of social inclusivity and educational excellence remains central to who they are today. Latymer Upper School, based in Hammersmith since 1895, is now a leading co‑educational independent day school educating around 1,400 pupils aged 11‑18, supported by an exceptional prep school and a staff community of over 350 professionals. They are known for their intellectual rigour, inclusive ethos and strong commitment to social mobility, and through their Inspiring Minds bursary campaign, they have one of the most ambitious bursary programmes in the sector.

They are also at the forefront of educational innovation. From 2027, Latymer will replace traditional GCSEs with a bespoke Middle School curriculum designed to develop deep critical thinking, creativity, resilience and collaboration, preparing students for advanced study and life‑long learning.

The Director of People and Culture will be a senior member of the leadership team, reporting directly to the Head and partnering with Governors and leaders across the School. They will provide strategic leadership of the People function, ensuring that the People Strategy aligns with Latymer’s vision and values and supports their aspirations for organisational excellence and innovation.

Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic leadership of the people function, reporting directly to the Head and partnering with Governors and leaders across the School.
  • Ensure that the People Strategy aligns with Latymer’s vision and values and supports organisational excellence and innovation.

Qualifications

Applications are welcomed from accomplished HR leaders who can bring clarity of purpose, strategic insight and operational credibility to their people agenda. While experience in education is valued, the School is particularly interested in candidates with a track record of leading cultural transformation, shaping forward‑looking people strategies, and fostering inclusive, high‑performance workplaces.

Benefits and Application

This role presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most dynamic school communities as they embed new pedagogical approaches and continue to strengthen their reputation for academic ambition, social impact and staff development that embraces lifelong learning.

To download further information on the role or to apply, please visit quoting ‘8235’. The deadline for applications is 08:30 GMT on Friday 6th February.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, online check and two satisfactory references.

Director of People and Culture in City of London employer: Latymer Upper School

Latymer Upper School is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead and shape the people strategy within a prestigious independent school renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to social mobility. With a strong focus on employee development and a collaborative work culture, staff are encouraged to innovate and grow, making a meaningful impact in the lives of students and the wider community. Located in Hammersmith, the school provides a supportive environment that values inclusivity and lifelong learning, ensuring that every team member can thrive both personally and professionally.
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Contact Detail:

Latymer Upper School Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of People and Culture in City of London

✨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 role like Director of People and Culture. 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 interviews by researching Latymer Upper School's values and recent initiatives. Show us that you understand their commitment to social mobility and educational innovation, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their vision.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be clear about what you bring to the table as a strategic leader in people and culture. We want to hear how you can drive cultural transformation and foster an inclusive workplace that aligns with Latymer’s ethos.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure to highlight your achievements in shaping forward-looking people strategies and your commitment to lifelong learning.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of People and Culture in City of London

Strategic Leadership
People Strategy Development
Cultural Transformation
Operational Credibility
Inclusive Workplace Practices
High-Performance Team Building
Collaboration with Governance
Educational Innovation
Change Management
Communication Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Vision Alignment
Social Mobility Advocacy
Lifelong Learning Promotion

Some tips for your application 🫡

Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand Latymer Upper School's ethos and values. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their commitment to social inclusivity and educational excellence.

Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to see the real you! Share your passion for people and culture, and how you envision contributing to the school's mission.

Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to showcase your track record in leading cultural transformation and shaping people strategies. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic insight and operational credibility.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Remember, the deadline is 08:30 GMT on Friday 6th February, so get your application in early!

How to prepare for a job interview at Latymer Upper School

✨Know the School's Values

Before your interview, take some time to really understand Latymer Upper School's ethos and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to social inclusivity and educational excellence, as this will help you align your responses with what they stand for.

✨Showcase Your Strategic Insight

As a candidate for the Director of People and Culture, it's crucial to demonstrate your strategic thinking. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led cultural transformations in previous roles, and be ready to discuss how you would apply that experience at Latymer.

✨Engage with the Leadership Team

Since this role involves partnering with Governors and leaders across the School, think about questions you can ask during the interview that show your interest in collaboration. This could include inquiries about their current people strategy or how they envision the future of the school’s culture.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to foster an inclusive workplace. Think through potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would address them, using specific examples from your past experiences.

Director of People and Culture in City of London
Latymer Upper School
Location: City of London
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  • Director of People and Culture in City of London

    City of London
    Full-Time
    48000 - 72000 ÂŁ / year (est.)
  • L

    Latymer Upper School

    500-1000
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