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- Tasks: Lead HR functions and champion our people strategy to enhance employee experience.
- Company: Foundation of Light, a charity linked to Sunderland Football Club, dedicated to community improvement.
- Benefits: Join a passionate team with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while shaping a positive workplace culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management and a passion for community engagement.
- Other info: Exciting time to join as we implement a new HR system and improve processes.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Foundation of Light, the registered charity of Sunderland Football Club, aims to involve, educate and inspire people of all ages from Sunderland, South Tyneside and Durham to improve their life chances, using football as the motivator. We are proud of our history and culture, our innovative and proactive solutions to community problems, and our people.
We are now looking to add to our passionate and enthusiastic team. We are seeking to appoint a People Manager to lead our HR function. This pivotal role will champion our people strategy, ensuring our HR practices and culture align seamlessly with our new strategic objectives.
The People Manager will oversee the day‑to‑day delivery of HR operations, provide guidance across the organisation, and support managers to drive consistently high standards. With the introduction of a new HR system on the horizon, the successful candidate will join us at an exciting time, playing a key role in shaping, implementing and embedding modern processes that will positively influence the employee experience across the Foundation.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Ciaron Brunning, Chief Financial Officer, at ciaron.brunning@foundationoflight.co.uk to arrange a call. The base for the post is the Beacon of Light, Sunderland.
Interested applicants should request an application pack or send a CV to gemma.snaith@foundationoflight.co.uk, or download packs from our website www.foundationoflight.co.uk. Candidates who have not heard within six weeks of application should assume they have been unsuccessful. The closing date is Tuesday 23rd December 2025 and interviews will be week commencing 12th January 2026. Appointments may be subject to an enhanced DBS Check. Foundation of Light is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
People Manager in Sunderland employer: North East Ambition
Contact Detail:
North East Ambition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People Manager in Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Foundation of Light. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Foundation's values and recent projects. Show us how your experience aligns with our mission to inspire and educate through football. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about what we do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through! Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you can lead our HR function effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows us that you're keen and professional, which is exactly the kind of attitude we’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace People Manager in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the People Manager role. Highlight your HR expertise and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to lead and inspire.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our mission at the Foundation of Light. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Follow the Application Instructions: We love it when candidates pay attention to detail! Make sure you request the application pack or send your CV to the right email address. Double-check everything before hitting send to avoid any hiccups.
Show Enthusiasm for Our Mission: Let us know why you're excited about working with us at the Foundation of Light. Share your thoughts on how football can be a motivator for change and how you can help us improve lives in the community.
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Ambition
✨Know Your People Strategy
Before the interview, dive deep into the Foundation of Light's people strategy. Understand how they aim to inspire and educate through football. This will help you align your answers with their mission and show that you're genuinely interested in their goals.
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
Be ready to discuss your previous HR experiences and how they relate to the role. Prepare specific examples of how you've implemented HR practices that improved employee engagement or streamlined operations. This will demonstrate your capability to lead their HR function effectively.
✨Embrace Change and Innovation
With a new HR system on the horizon, highlight your adaptability and experience with modern HR processes. Share examples of how you've successfully managed change in past roles, as this will reassure them that you can help shape and embed new systems smoothly.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the Foundation's culture and future HR initiatives. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the organisation aligns with your values. For instance, ask about their approach to employee development or how they measure success in their HR practices.
