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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to shape and deliver an innovative People Strategy.
- Company: Join Great Places Housing Group, a values-led not-for-profit housing association.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £95,000 plus benefits, promoting work-life balance.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a collaborative workplace where everyone can thrive.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities and drive positive change in a progressive environment.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with senior-level people leadership experience; housing sector experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 95000 £ per year.
Circa £95,000 Plus Benefits. As a values‑led organisation with customers at our heart, Great Places Housing Group is driven by a clear and compelling vision: Great homes, Great communities and Great people. Could you be our exceptional new Director of People, helping us realise our bold ambitions and ensuring our people and culture continue to drive our success?
Manchester — Circa £95,000 Plus Benefits. Great Places is a not‑for‑profit housing association, owning and managing over 27,000 homes across the North West and South Yorkshire. Far more than a landlord, we work in partnership to deliver a wide range of services that help people and communities to thrive. As a strategic partner of Homes England, we are one of the leading developing housing associations in the North and will deliver over 5,000 new affordable homes through the current Affordable Homes Programme. With more than 1,000 colleagues across four regional offices, we are ambitious, progressive and deeply rooted in social purpose.
Role and Responsibilities
Reporting to the Chief Transformation Officer, the Director of People will lead a high‑performing team of approximately 30 HR, OD and L&D professionals. You will shape and deliver our progressive People Strategy that supports our ambitions, strengthens leadership capability and embeds an inclusive, positive and high‑performance culture. As a key member of our senior leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring Great Places continues to be recognised as an innovative employer delivering empathetic, consistent and high‑quality services. You will bring senior‑level people leadership experience from a regulated environment (housing sector experience is desirable) and this could be your first or next Director‑level role. CIPD qualified, you will be a collaborative, pragmatic and values‑driven leader, with a proven track record of delivering impactful people and change programmes. You will be solutions‑focused, influential and deeply committed to diversity, equality and inclusion. We warmly welcome applications from people of all identities, backgrounds and cultures and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can be their authentic self.
Illustrative Qualifications and Experience
- Senior‑level people leadership experience in a regulated environment (housing sector experience is desirable).
- CIPD qualified.
- Collaborative, pragmatic and values‑driven leadership with a track record of delivery on people and change programmes.
- Strong commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion.
How to Apply
To apply, please download the candidate pack by clicking the ‘Apply’ button. For a confidential discussion, please contact Nick Roberts on 07393 013697 or Jude Watters on 07594 250060. Closing date: 9am on Monday 1 June 2026.
Director of People in Manchester employer: People Management magazine
Contact Detail:
People Management magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the housing sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Great Places Housing Group thoroughly. Understand their values and culture, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission of creating great homes and communities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams and implemented successful people strategies in previous roles. This is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission at Great Places.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the organisation. Dive into the job description and align your experience with what they’re looking for. We want to see how your background fits into their vision of Great homes, Great communities, and Great people.
Be Authentic: Show us who you really are! We value diversity and authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your unique experiences and perspectives that make you a great fit for the Director of People role.
Tailor Your Application: Generic applications just won’t cut it. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for this role. Highlight your senior-level people leadership experience and how it aligns with their progressive People Strategy. We want to see that you’ve put in the effort!
Follow the Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website as instructed. Download the candidate pack and follow any specific guidelines provided. This shows us that you can follow directions and are genuinely interested in joining our team at Great Places.
How to prepare for a job interview at People Management magazine
✨Know Your Values
Great Places Housing Group is all about values and culture. Make sure you understand their mission of 'Great homes, Great communities and Great people'. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a potential Director of People, you'll need to demonstrate your senior-level leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've led teams in a regulated environment, focusing on your impact on people and change programmes.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
This role requires a strong commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion. Be prepared to share your experiences and strategies for fostering an inclusive workplace. Highlight any initiatives you've led that promote these values.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about their People Strategy and how they measure success in their culture. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.