At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Employee Experience team and manage complex HR cases.
- Company: Join Leigh Academies Trust, a progressive multi-academy trust in the South East.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and a Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a pivotal moment in building a world-class people function.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on colleague experience in a dynamic, supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Emotional resilience and expertise in HR and employment law required.
The predicted salary is between 41348 - 53178 £ per year.
Competitive salary with progression opportunities + Local Government Pension Scheme + 24/7 access to a free virtual GP Service + collaborative MAT network + additional LAT benefits.
Who we are:
Leigh Academies Trust (LAT) is one of the South East’s largest and most progressive multi-academy trusts, encompassing 33 academies across Kent, Medway, and South East London, spanning primary, secondary, grammar, all-through and specialist provision. We are ambitious, values-led and committed to our people.
Our People Services team is at the centre of that ambition. We are guided by Be Leigh, our cultural framework that defines what every colleague should experience at the Trust, and we are now developing our next People Strategy, which will shape how we recruit, develop and retain our people through to 2030. This is a team with a clear sense of direction and senior leadership support to deliver it.
The role:
This is a senior, varied and fast-moving role. You will manage the Employee Experience team, overseeing workload and casework, building capacity and being the person your People Advisors and Administrators turn to when they need support, guidance or a steer.
You will manage a complex caseload, support chairs at formal hearings, undertake and support investigations, lead on restructures, TUPE and redundancy, and provide expert advice and appropriate challenge to senior leaders. You will also play an active part in developing the team.
What we are looking for:
You are an emotionally resilient, solutions-focused HR professional who puts colleague experience first. You possess the commercial acumen to advise at a senior level and the technical expertise to navigate complex employment law.
Why join us:
This isn't a role where you will stand still. You will gain a varied, genuinely challenging portfolio with real autonomy in a massive, complex organisation. You are joining us at a pivotal moment as we build a world-class people function that directly impacts thousands of colleagues.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary from £41,348 - £53,178 per annum, based on experience
- Generous annual leave (25 days, increasing to 30 after 5 years' service + bank holidays)
- Hybrid working
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Enhanced Maternity Pay
- Free on-site parking
- Training and development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme & 24/7 GP service
This is a full-time, hybrid role. You will work four days in the office or across your academy portfolio, with one day working from home. Your academies will be based across North West Kent and South East London.
Our Commitment to Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity:
Leigh Academies Trust and all of our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process across all academies and business units which is in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
As a Trust, we are passionate about diversity and recognise that as individuals, we all bring something unique to the role regardless of any protected characteristics which is why we treat all of our people equally, without compromise. We are committed to providing equality and fairness throughout our recruitment and employment practices and not discriminating on any grounds.
People Partner (HR) in Strood employer: LeighAcademiesTrust
Leigh Academies Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment where the Student Wellbeing & Success Manager can thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth and a commitment to student success, staff benefit from competitive salaries, progression opportunities, and a supportive community that values collaboration and empathy. Located in a vibrant area, this role provides unique advantages such as access to a local government pension scheme, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People Partner (HR) in Strood
✨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 LeighAcademiesTrust!
✨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 LeighAcademiesTrust.
We think you need these skills to ace People Partner (HR) in Strood
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 LeighAcademiesTrust. 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 LeighAcademiesTrust 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 LeighAcademiesTrust. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to LeighAcademiesTrust'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 LeighAcademiesTrust
✨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 LeighAcademiesTrust.
✨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 LeighAcademiesTrust 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 LeighAcademiesTrust and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
