At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy to enhance educational outcomes for over 6,500 students.
- Company: Saffron Academy Trust, dedicated to high-quality education and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunity to shape educational leadership.
- Other info: Join a growing trust with a commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's education and drive transformational change.
- Qualifications: Strong HR management experience and excellent interpersonal skills.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
Salary Range: LGPS points 54-60 (£73,983 - £84,915 FTE – Pay award pending)
Start date: 1st September 2026, or by agreement.
Every child deserves to go to a great school. Saffron Academy Trust seeks a committed and passionate individual to embrace our Vision, Values and Ethos and build on our strong foundations already in place. Our new Chief People Officer will provide inspirational, strategic and professional leadership which will ensure the continuing development and success of the Trust and its academies as places of transformational learning with a reputation for high standards across all aspects of its work.
The Chief People Officer will seek to further develop and deliver the vision and the aims of the Trust to create a platform for high standards of learning for all. We are a growing trust. We are currently a community of three secondary schools, one all-through school and five primary schools, serving more than 6,500 students and employing 1,000 staff.
The Chief People Officer will help to shape the evolution of the Trust as it seeks to build on its initial successes in bringing schools together to address disadvantages and to achieve outstanding outcomes for all pupils. The Chief People Officer will provide an outstanding HR service which supports the education of children and young people across the Trust’s schools.
The successful candidate will possess:
- A strong HR management background
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- The ability to think strategically and creatively
- A commitment to supporting high quality education for all children
The role provides a very real opportunity to contribute to the leadership of the strategic direction of our Trust. The new Chief People Officer will be supported by a strong, committed Central Team, Board of Trustees and Members, whilst at school level we have a strong governance structure and highly skilled Headteachers.
Closing date for applications: Tuesday 7th July 2026 @ 10am. Interviews are expected to take place during the week beginning Monday 13th July 2026.
Please note that this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and is subject to a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) Check. Saffron Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Chief People Officer employer: SAFFRON WALDEN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
Saffron Academy Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a transformative educational environment for over 6,500 students. With a strong commitment to high standards and a supportive work culture, the Trust offers ample opportunities for professional growth and development, backed by a dedicated Central Team and skilled Headteachers. Joining us as Chief People Officer means being part of a collaborative community that values innovation and excellence in education.
Contact Details:
SAFFRON WALDEN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer
✨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!
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer
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 SAFFRON WALDEN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL. 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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at SAFFRON WALDEN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
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