At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and operations strategy to enhance educational outcomes across the Trust.
- Company: Join a dynamic Trust focused on collaboration and excellence in education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Training provided; commitment to safeguarding and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while driving organisational performance.
- Qualifications: Relevant transferable skills; previous school experience not required.
The predicted salary is between 77804 - 83263 € per year.
Start date - 1 August or soon thereafter.
Salary: CAN scale 61-65 (Actual annual salary of £77,804 - £83,263).
Working hours: Core hours being between 8.30am and 4.30pm with 30 minutes for lunch.
Location: Trust wide role, based at Cheam High School and Oaks Park High School.
This is a very important post which will give the successful candidate an excellent opportunity to contribute to the work of the Trust and its schools through collaboration with the CEO, Headteachers, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Directors. The role is varied and is line managed by the CEO. Previous work in schools is not required for those with relevant transferable skills.
The overall purpose of this role is to deliver strategic leadership across the Trust’s people strategy and operational infrastructure, ensuring exemplary HR practice, efficient operations, sustainable estates, strong governance and compliance/legal oversight. The postholder will drive high organisational performance across all people and operational functions, enabling the Trust to deliver excellent educational outcomes. The postholder will also perform the functions of the Trust Data Protection Officer.
The Trust is based in the London Borough of Sutton, and works across two local schools providing secondary education for roughly 3500 students.
Further information and an application form are available from the joining us/staff vacancies page on the Cheam High School and Oaks Park High School websites. Please note that applications must be submitted on a Trust application form; CVs alone are not accepted. Training in school systems and practices will be provided.
Application on the Trust application form to the HR Team asap and by 12 midday on Monday 1st June 2026 at the latest. Please note that if sufficient applications are received, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.
Cheam Academies Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As such, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Cheam Academies Network is an equal opportunities employer.
Trust HR & Operations Director in London employer: Oaks Park High School
Cheam Academies Network is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that empowers its staff to make a meaningful impact on the educational outcomes of approximately 3500 students. With a commitment to employee growth, the Trust provides comprehensive training in school systems and practices, ensuring that all team members are well-equipped to excel in their roles. Located in the vibrant London Borough of Sutton, employees benefit from a supportive environment that values diversity and promotes the welfare of children.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trust HR & Operations Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those connected to the Trust. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Trust’s values and recent initiatives. We want to see how your skills align with their mission, so be ready to share examples of how you've driven organisational performance in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your transferable skills! Even if you haven't worked in schools before, highlight experiences that demonstrate your strategic leadership and operational expertise. We love seeing how diverse backgrounds can bring fresh perspectives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure you fill out the Trust application form completely. It’s your chance to shine, so take your time and make it count. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace Trust HR & Operations Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start filling out the application form, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for, so make sure you understand the role inside out!
Use the Trust Application Form:Remember, we only accept applications through our Trust application form. So, don’t waste time sending in a CV alone! Head over to our website, grab the form, and fill it out completely.
Showcase Your Relevant Skills:Even if you haven't worked in schools before, we’re keen on transferable skills. Highlight your experience that relates to strategic leadership, HR practices, or operational management. We want to know how you can contribute to our Trust!
Submit Before the Deadline:Make sure you get your application in by 12 midday on Monday 1st June 2026. If you’re ready to join us, don’t wait until the last minute – apply as soon as you can to avoid missing out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oaks Park High School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the Trust's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their people strategy and operational infrastructure. This will help you demonstrate how your skills align with their goals during the interview.
✨Showcase Transferable Skills
Even if you haven't worked in schools before, highlight your relevant transferable skills. Think about your experience in HR, operations, or governance and how these can contribute to the Trust's success. Be ready to provide specific examples.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the Trust's future plans, and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Professional Yet Approachable
As this role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, strike a balance between professionalism and approachability. Practice your communication skills to ensure you come across as both competent and relatable during the interview.
