At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the people strategy and culture at a top college, shaping the future of education.
- Company: Runshaw College, a nationally recognised institution with a commitment to student success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on people's lives and foster a thriving workplace culture.
- Qualifications: Proven strategic leadership experience and a passion for people development.
The predicted salary is between 73543 - 73543 £ per year.
Between £73,543 p.a. and £80,661 p.a. dependent upon qualifications and competencies. In addition, Runshaw College will contribute up to £5,566 p.a. in employer pension contributions to the LGPS Defined Benefit pension. 37 hours per week. Permanent.
Runshaw College is one of the most successful colleges in the country, recognised nationally for exceptional outcomes, a welcoming culture and a commitment to putting students at the heart of every decision we make. Our vision is clear and ambitious: to be a Great Place to Study, a Great Place to Work and a Great Place for Partnerships. It reflects our belief that exceptional education changes lives and our determination to create an environment in which learners and colleagues can thrive.
Due to the retirement of our current postholder, we are seeking to appoint an exceptional Director of People & Culture to join the College’s Senior Team. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of the country's leading colleges, providing strategic leadership for our people strategy, culture, leadership development and organisational performance.
As a member of the Senior Management Team, you will play a key role in delivering our strategic ambitions and ensuring that our people and values remain central to our success. Working closely with governors, senior leaders and colleagues across the organisation, you will lead an ambitious people agenda that supports excellence, innovation and continuous improvement.
We are looking for an experienced and values-driven leader with the credibility, judgement and influence to operate at executive level. You will bring a strong track record of strategic leadership, the ability to build trusted relationships and a passion for creating a culture in which colleagues feel valued, supported and able to perform at their best. As an individual, you will be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Closing date for this post is 12 noon, Friday 18th September 2026. For further information and to apply, please visit www.runshaw.ac.uk/work-at-runshaw/current-vacancies and click on Vacancies. Alternatively, email HR@runshaw.ac.uk or call 01772 642004, quoting the vacancy reference number.
Runshaw College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the health, safety and welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We value diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community, particularly people with protected characteristics.
Director of People & Culture in Leyland employer: Runshaw College
Runshaw College is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. Located in Leyland, Lancashire, employees benefit from flexible working hours, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to delivering high-quality services to the community. Join us to be part of a team that prioritises growth and customer satisfaction in a dynamic educational environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Culture in Leyland
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Runshaw College!
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If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Runshaw College.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Culture in Leyland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Runshaw College. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Runshaw College and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Runshaw College. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Runshaw College's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Runshaw College
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Runshaw College.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Runshaw College will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Runshaw College and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
