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- Tasks: Lead the HR team, ensuring smooth operations and a top-notch HR service.
- Company: Sedbergh School is a prestigious educational institution focused on excellence and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative environment, professional development opportunities, and a chance to make an impact.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team at the heart of education, shaping the future of our schools.
- Qualifications: Degree level or equivalent experience in HR, with knowledge of UK employment laws.
- Other info: Experience in education is a plus; creativity and problem-solving skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Sedbergh School and Sedbergh Casterton Prep School are seeking a highly professional, motivated and positive person to join their busy HR team as Director of People. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Manager, who enjoys working in a generalist role within a varied environment. The key purpose of the role will be to provide an outstanding generalist HR service to the School and its commercial ventures, to ensure the smooth operational running of the Sedbergh School group.
Working closely with the Heads of the Prep & Senior Schools, and the COO, the role of Director of People is truly at the core of Sedbergh School. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a small but highly dedicated team, whilst also playing an integral part within the schools Operational Leadership Team.
Roles and Responsibilities:- Working closely with the Academic staff, Business staff and Senior Leadership Team across the School
- Strengthening our employer brand, in line with our overall brand, to help attract diverse, talented and committed people who are aligned with our values
- Holding responsibility for the quality and consistency of the HR service, ensuring a reliable and engaging service which ensures best practice processes are embedded across the School
- Developing and motivating a growing team of People professionals
- Keeping up to date with new developments, best practice and relevant changes in the law in the UK and beyond
- Developing effective relationships with external and internal stakeholders
- Work closely with the Head, COO, and colleagues on the Leadership Team to achieve effective day to day leadership of the School, driving high performance and contributing to problem solving
- Accountable for the financial performance of the People function and management of key risks relating to HR, including legal risks
- Ensure the information we collect, process and transfer is accurate and managed in a safe and secure way
- Develop ways to engage and grow our people to ensure all staff have the opportunity to regularly feedback on personal performance
- Degree level or equivalent experience
- Knowledge of UK employment laws and HR best practices
- Background in organisational development, talent management, and employee relations
- Evidence of CPD
- Demonstrable experience of leading change
- Experience of developing teams to become enabling, empowering and inclusive
- Experience of providing comprehensive people support
- Experience of leading teams
- Experience of working in education would be desirable
- A creative thinker
- Excellent coaching skills
- A problem solver
- Strong general management capabilities - including finance, risk, compliance and reporting, and process mapping
Director of People employer: Sedbergh School
Contact Detail:
Sedbergh School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in HR roles. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in HR within educational institutions.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Sedbergh School's values and culture. Understanding their mission will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals during interviews and discussions with the leadership team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led change in previous roles. Highlight your experience in developing teams and implementing HR best practices that align with the needs of a diverse workforce.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on UK employment laws and HR best practices. Being knowledgeable about recent changes will demonstrate your commitment to compliance and your ability to manage legal risks effectively in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in HR management, particularly in educational settings. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific achievements that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for HR and education. Address how your background in organisational development and talent management makes you a perfect fit for the Director of People role at Sedbergh School.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as coaching, problem-solving, and financial management. Provide examples of how you've successfully led teams and implemented best practices in HR.
Showcase Your Knowledge of Employment Law: Demonstrate your understanding of UK employment laws and HR best practices. Mention any relevant training or certifications you have that would support your capability to manage legal risks effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sedbergh School
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
Make sure to highlight your knowledge of UK employment laws and HR best practices during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully implemented these in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Director of People, you'll be managing a team. Share your experiences in leading teams, particularly in developing and motivating them. Use examples that showcase your ability to empower others and drive high performance.
✨Align with Their Values
Sedbergh School is looking for someone who aligns with their values. Research the school's mission and ethos, and be ready to explain how your personal values and professional approach fit within their framework.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and creativity. Think of past challenges you've faced in HR and how you navigated them, especially in an educational context.
