Overview
In this strategic role, you will lead the People function across a large, multi-site SEND environment, shaping workforce strategy and culture. You will work closely with senior leadership to influence system-wide practice and staff experience, ensuring sustainable recruitment, retention, and high performance. The role sits at the intersection of education, health and care, offering a chance to drive meaningful improvements for children, families and staff. You will partner with the Executive Principal and Governing Board to deliver credible, values-led HR leadership and long-term sustainability. This is a high-impact opportunity to shape workforce strategy at scale in a complex setting.
Pay / Benefits
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- wellbeing support through Schools Advisory Service
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
- VIVUP employee benefits platform
- professional development and leadership growth
Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver workforce strategy across a complex, multi-site SEND organisation
- Drive sustainable recruitment and retention in a challenging labour market
- Use workforce data and insight to shape strategic decision-making
- Shape and embed a values-led, inclusive, high-performing culture
- Provide expert advice to senior leaders and Governors and influence organisational performance
- Oversee staff experience, workforce sustainability and safeguarding commitments
- Collaborate with education, health and care partners to influence system-wide practice
- Support professional development and leadership growth within the People function
Key requirements
- Substantial senior HR/People leadership experience in a complex organisation
- CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent) with strong employment law expertise
- Proven track record delivering workforce strategy and organisational change
- Analytical and data-driven with ability to translate insight into strategy
- Credibility with leaders, staff, unions and external partners
- Integrity and safeguarding-focused leadership
- Executive or senior professional development is desirable
- strategic thinking
- stakeholder influencing
- credaibility and trust-building
- workforce planning
- employment law expertise
- data-driven decision-making
Head of People in Leeds employer: Leeds City Council
Leeds City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and community engagement. With a competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and a commitment to diversity, employees can thrive in a role that not only enhances their career but also contributes positively to the local environment and community well-being.
