At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead people strategy and culture development across the organisation.
- Company: Join the William Henry Smith Foundation, a values-driven organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on safeguarding, equality, and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on workforce culture and support vulnerable children and young adults.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 or equivalent HR qualification and significant leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 63837 - 67435 £ per year.
William Henry Smith Foundation are looking for a Director of People, Development and Culture to join their Strategic Leadership Team.
Salary: £63,837.00 – £67,435.00 per annum
Hours: 37
Main geographical location of role: Rastrick
Closing date: 17 June 2026
Location: Based at the William Henry Smith School but requirement to work across all Foundation sites.
Contract: Full time, Permanent, All year round, 37 hours per week
Responsible to: Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principals
Responsible for: People Team (HR and L&D)
Key Relationships: Chief Executive Officer; Principals; Registered Manager (Children’s Home); Head of Care; Designated Safeguarding Leads; SLT and Operational Managers; Board of Trustees / Governors; External Regulators, and local authorities
Interview Date: 2nd July 2026
Start Date: To be confirmed
Purpose of the Role
The Director of People, Development and Culture will provide strategic leadership for all people-related functions across the organisation. This is a key role in shaping a values-led, inclusive, and safe culture for our diverse workforce and the vulnerable children and young adults we support. You will lead on workforce planning, recruitment, employee relations, performance and talent development, while ensuring compliance with safeguarding standards, Ofsted, DfE and local authorities expectations, and employment legislation (HMRC, ACAS etc). You will help build a collaborative, compassionate, and accountable working environment where staff are empowered and children and young adults can thrive. You will have an active presence, contributing to strategic direction, supporting effective decision-making, and promoting a culture of collaboration and accountability across the Foundation.
Key responsibilities
- Create, and implement a people strategy aligned with the organisation’s mission, safeguarding responsibilities, and regulatory requirements.
- Act as a strategic advisor to the CEO and Senior Leadership on all workforce and organisational development matters.
- Maintain compliance with all relevant employment and sector-specific legislation.
- Lead and oversee all HR operations including employee relations, performance management, absence and wellbeing.
- Develop and implement L&D strategies that meet all mandatory training requirements and support professional growth.
- Present people data, analysis and reports to other strategic leaders, Governors and Trustees to support decision making, and influence operational decision-making.
About you
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds a CIPD Level 7 qualification or equivalent professional HR Qualification
- Can evidence continued professional development in HR, organisational development or leadership
- Has significant senior HR/People leadership experience within a complex organisation
- Has proven experience of leading organisational culture change and workforce development strategies
- Is values-driven, committed to safeguarding, student welfare, equality and diversity
- Is self-motivated and proactive, with a willingness to undertake further training and continuous learning
Application information
Visits are highly recommended. For further information or to book a visit, please contact the HR department on email address: HR@WHSFOUNDATION.ORG.UK or call 01484 710 123. All our roles are by application via Sam Recruit – We do not accept CVs. Candidates are required to complete the application form in full, using the Job Advert, Job Description and Person Specification as a guide. Applications must clearly demonstrate how all essential criteria is met. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, we would encourage you to submit your application as early as possible.
Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended 2013) Posts which involve substantial access to children are exempt from provisions contained within this Act under which the job applicants are entitled to withhold information about any previous criminal background which is either unspent or would otherwise be considered ‘spent’ under the terms of the Act. However, changes to the legislation in 2013 mean that spent convictions may be protected and do not have to be disclosed to prospective employers. Employers cannot take protected offences into account when making employment decisions. If the job for which you have applied involves substantial access to children and you have been shortlisted for the post, you will be provided with a form on which you will be asked to disclose any relevant previous criminal background. We will provide more information on protected offences at that stage. If you are the successful applicant you will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service disclosure & we will also check the DBS barred list (children). Failure to complete this form will result in your application not proceeding any further. The possession of a criminal record will not automatically debar you from consideration for the post for which you have applied. Any information given will be treated as confidential and will only be used in relation to the post for which you have applied.
Director of People, Development and Culture – William Henry Smith Foundation, Rastrick employer: Natspec Association
The William Henry Smith Foundation is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the development and well-being of its staff. With a strong commitment to professional growth, employees benefit from tailored learning and development strategies while contributing to a mission-driven organisation that positively impacts the lives of vulnerable children and young adults. Located in Rastrick, this role provides a unique opportunity to lead transformative people initiatives within a collaborative environment, ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of accountability and compassion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People, Development and Culture – William Henry Smith Foundation, Rastrick
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research the William Henry Smith Foundation and understand their values, mission, and culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and insights into the role. This can give you an edge and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to people management and organisational culture. Think about how your past experiences align with the responsibilities of the Director of People, Development and Culture role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure your application is complete and showcases how you meet the essential criteria. The sooner you apply, the better your chances, as we might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People, Development and Culture – William Henry Smith Foundation, Rastrick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. It’s crucial to understand what the William Henry Smith Foundation is looking for in a candidate, so you can tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Showcase Your Experience:When filling out the application form, be specific about your past experiences that align with the role. Use examples that demonstrate your leadership in HR, organisational development, and culture change, as these are key aspects of the position.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your answers clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and overly complex language. We want to see your personality shine through, but clarity is key to making sure your application stands out.
Apply Early Through Our Website:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We encourage you to apply as early as possible through our website. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also gives you a better chance of being considered before the closing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at Natspec Association
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Director of People, Development and Culture. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and how they align with the Foundation's mission. This will help you articulate your vision for the role during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your leadership in HR and organisational culture change. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully implemented people strategies and navigated complex challenges in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Values and Culture
The Foundation is looking for someone who is values-driven. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding safeguarding, equality, and diversity. Share examples of how you've fostered an inclusive culture in your previous positions.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about their current challenges and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the Foundation is the right fit for you. It also demonstrates your strategic thinking and engagement.
