At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the people agenda for a mission-driven charity.
- Company: Open Doors, a Christian charity supporting persecuted believers worldwide.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Potential for permanent role; dynamic environment with inspiring colleagues.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while fostering a healthy, values-driven culture.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in people and culture with a strong Christian faith.
The predicted salary is between 54700 - 64600 £ per year.
£64,758 – £76,187 per annum
5 days, 37.5 hours per week (a 4-day working week will be considered)
Location: Witney, Oxfordshire (Our policy is a minimum of 40% of hours in the office, with the remainder remote working. Wednesday is a mandatory office day)
Are you a committed Christian who is passionate about the persecuted church and the mission of Open Doors? Are you a strategic people leader who is passionate about creating healthy, high-trust organisations where people and culture truly matter? Do you have a track record of leading organisational change while maintaining trust, clarity, and a strong sense of identity?
Open Doors is a Christian charity looking to recruit active, practicing Christians to stand in the GAP (give, act, pray) on behalf of persecuted Christians worldwide. Every day, millions of Christians risk their lives to follow Jesus. In more than 70 countries, Open Doors supports them by supplying Bibles, providing emergency relief and helping persecuted believers stand strong for the long-term.
We are seeking a Director of People & Culture to provide strategic leadership for our people agenda and to champion a healthy, values-driven culture across the organisation. This is a senior leadership role, responsible for shaping and delivering a people agenda that enables our people to thrive, supports organisational effectiveness, and aligns with our mission, values and long-term goals.
The post-holder will work closely with the CEO, Leadership Team and Board/Trustees to ensure we have the right culture, capability and capacity in place now and for the future. This is an interim appointment, created to provide strong People & Culture leadership during a significant season for the organisation. We are currently in the process of recruiting a new Chief Executive Officer, and this role will work closely with the CEO once appointed to support organisational stability, culture, and people priorities.
While this post is offered on an interim basis, there is the potential for the role to become permanent, subject to organisational need and the outcome of the CEO appointment. You will have the opportunity to use your God-given character and talents to contribute to the work of Open Doors and to work with integrity and with purpose. We offer a flexible role with a good work-life balance, huge job satisfaction and employee benefits. You will work with some inspirational people and there are plenty of opportunities to develop your career. We welcome applications from candidates of different backgrounds.
If you are a Christian looking to make an impact and seeking a new challenge in 2026, here’s how to apply:
- View the job pack
- Complete the online application and upload a copy of your cover letter and CV.
A covering letter of not more than two pages outlining your motivation and relevant experience for this role. Please do mention:
- Your fit with the Christian faith and motivation we seek in this leader.
- What is it about this role that most attracts and interests you?
- How do you think your current experience has prepared you well to lead a team and influence strategy within the sphere of People & Culture?
- What would be your hopes for your own development through this role?
A full CV, including responsibilities held and relevant achievements.
Closing date: midnight (BST) Sunday, 22 February 2026
1st Interview: Thursday, 5 March (likely online via Microsoft Teams)
2nd Interview: Wednesday, 18 March (in-person in Witney)
If you experience any issues with the online application, email: recruitteam@opendoorsuk.org
Christian faith is an Occupational Requirement for this position.
Interim Director of People & Culture in Witney employer: Open Doors UK&I
Open Doors is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and values-driven culture, where employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally. Located in the picturesque town of Witney, Oxfordshire, we offer a flexible working environment with a strong emphasis on work-life balance, alongside opportunities for career development and meaningful engagement in our mission to support persecuted Christians worldwide. Join us to make a significant impact while working with a passionate team dedicated to creating a high-trust organisation that truly values its people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Director of People & Culture in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation before your interview. Research Open Doors, their mission, and values. This will help us connect your experience with what they stand for, showing you're not just a fit on paper but also in spirit.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during your interview. This shows us that you're genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. Plus, it gives you a chance to assess if this is the right place for you too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, especially those related to leadership and culture. We want to hear how you've led change and built trust in previous roles, so be ready to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows us that you’re courteous and keen on the opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Director of People & Culture in Witney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start your application, take a moment to really understand what Open Doors is all about. Dive into our mission and values, and think about how your own beliefs align with ours. This will help you craft a cover letter that truly resonates with us.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for the persecuted church and how your experience aligns with the role. Don’t forget to mention your fit with the Christian faith and what excites you about this position.
Showcase Your Experience:When writing your CV, focus on relevant achievements and responsibilities that demonstrate your leadership in People & Culture. We want to see how you've led change and built trust in previous roles, so be specific and give examples!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Doors UK&I
✨Know Your Faith and Values
As this role requires a strong alignment with Christian values, be prepared to discuss your faith openly. Reflect on how your beliefs shape your leadership style and decision-making, especially in relation to the mission of Open Doors.
✨Showcase Your People Leadership Skills
Highlight specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led organisational change. Be ready to discuss how you maintained trust and clarity during these transitions, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Open Doors' work and its impact on persecuted Christians worldwide. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their mission through the People & Culture agenda.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the current culture within the organisation or how they envision the role evolving alongside the new CEO. It shows your engagement and strategic thinking.
