Director of People in Newbury

Prior's Court is a specialist organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of autistic children and young people with complex needs. To deliver this mission, our staff must feel safe, valued, supported and inspired. We are now seeking an exceptional Director of People to lead our People strategy and shape the culture that enables our teams to thrive.

Key information:

• Hours: 37.5 hours per week
• Contract type: Permanent - full-time

The role of Director of People

As the most senior HR professional at Prior's Court and a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of People will drive the organisation’s People strategy, ensuring we have a sustainable, skilled and motivated workforce capable of delivering outstanding care, education and support. Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will lead the full breadth of People functions, including HR, Learning & Development, Recruitment & Onboarding, and Payroll & Benefits. You will champion a positive, inclusive and supportive culture where staff feel heard, respected and empowered.

• This is a role for a strategic thinker who is equally comfortable being visible, hands-on and connected to staff across the organisation.
• Lead the organisation’s People strategy, ensuring a sustainable, skilled and motivated workforce and a positive management culture.
• Oversee all People operations, including policies, performance management, compliance, reporting and staff engagement.
• Ensure an effective Employee Value Proposition, competitive pay and benefits, strong wellbeing initiatives and high-quality recruitment, onboarding and employee relations support.
• Guarantee accurate payroll, regulatory training compliance and learning, and development plans that enable staff progression.
• Contribute to organisational strategy and executive leadership, driving cross-department collaboration, representing the organisation externally, and modelling its values.

What we are looking for

The successful candidate will bring substantial senior People experience, CIPD accreditation, and excellent communication and management skills. They will be confident working with internal and external stakeholders. They will be an inspiring, values-driven leader who champions inclusion, fairness and staff wellbeing, and brings curiosity and proactive energy to the role.

Benefits

We know that our people are central to everything we do. That’s why we’re committed to recognising, supporting and rewarding our staff through a comprehensive and flexible benefits package. We offer a wide range of rewards designed to support your financial well-being, personal development, and work-life balance:

• Pension scheme – Prior’s Court contributes 5% of your basic salary, with a minimum 3% contribution from you
• 33 days of annual leave – including Bank Holidays
• 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme – confidential advice, guidance and support whenever you need it
• Life assurance – offering additional peace of mind
• Flexible Benefits and Discount Platform – access savings and tailored offers
• Health Cash Plan – available on a self-funded basis
• Staff recognition – annual awards and ongoing appreciation schemes including Long Service Awards
• Refer-a-friend scheme – earn financial rewards for successful referrals
• Free flu vaccinations – available on-site each year
• Cycle to Work scheme – save money on bikes and accessories
• Electric Car Scheme – drive greener with tax-efficient leasing

FAQ

No, unfortunately we are unable to support with visa sponsorship. All offers of employment are subject to the successful completion of pre-employment checks. These include references, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, proof of right to work in the UK, and any other relevant clearances. All new staff will join our induction programme when they start at Prior’s Court. You will be booked onto the induction once you have completed all pre-employment checks.

Contact us about this role

t: 01635 247202

All positions at Prior's Court are subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, references and receipt of the appropriate Right to Work documents. Prior’s Court Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Prior’s Court is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and we actively seek and embrace differences in thinking, experience, ethnicity, age, gender, faith, personalities and styles. The different skills, experiences and backgrounds our employees bring to their roles create a workforce as diverse and individual as the young people we support and makes Prior’s Court a special place to work. We strive for an inclusive environment where employees feel safe, engaged and supported to make a difference.