At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and foster a positive, inclusive culture across our schools.
- Company: Join a fast-growing, not-for-profit independent school group in south-east London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to excellence and social purpose.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education and shape the future of our schools.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience in complex organisations and a passion for people.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
St Dunstan's Education Group is one of the fastest-growing not-for-profit independent school groups in the UK, comprising a dynamic family of schools across south-east London with 500 employees. Educating close to 2,000 pupils from early years to sixth form, the Group is united by a shared ethos, a commitment to Excellence, and a bold ambition to be recognised as a modern, socially purposeful and commercially sustainable model for independent education.
This is a significant and exciting opportunity for an accomplished HR professional to shape and deliver a modern, ambitious and values-led people strategy across a high-performing educational group. Reporting to the COO, with a dotted line to the CEO, and sitting on the Professional Services Leadership Team, the Director of People will lead on all aspects of HR, including:
- Recruitment
- Retention
- Reward
- Employee relations
- Professional development
- Wellbeing
- Inclusion
They will lead a team of eight and, working closely with the Heads of each school, they will deliver a high-impact business partnering service that drives school improvement, strengthens staff engagement and supports a positive, inclusive, high-trust working environment fully compliant with regulations.
Candidates will bring a strong track record of HR or people leadership in complex organisations, with experience of shaping culture, managing change, and building effective teams and systems.
Group Director of People in Dover employer: ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP
St Dunstan's Education Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With a commitment to excellence and a bold vision for the future of independent education, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that fosters growth and collaboration across our dynamic family of schools in south-east London.
Contact Details:
ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Director of People in Dover
✨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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Director of People in Dover
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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP. 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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP 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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP'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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP
✨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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP.
✨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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP 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 ST DUNSTAN'S EDUCATION GROUP and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
