At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape a high-performing, inclusive culture at DofE.
- Company: Join a mission-driven organisation dedicated to youth development.
- Benefits: Generous salary, pension, healthcare, and 25 days holiday plus more.
- Other info: Remote work with some travel; excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on culture and leadership in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: MCIPD/FCIPD and significant senior HR experience required.
The predicted salary is between 82385 - 96923 £ per year.
We’re looking for an outstanding Director of People and Culture to lead and shape a high-performing, inclusive and values-led culture at DofE. This is a pivotal leadership role, working closely with the CEO, Executive Leadership Team and Board to ensure we have the capability, leadership and organisational design needed to deliver our mission, now and into the future. As we launch our ambitious World Ready strategy, this is an exciting opportunity to influence the next phase of our development, supporting c.400 colleagues and a network of over 5,000 partner organisations delivering programmes through 40,000 adult leaders.
As Director of People and Culture, you will:
- Lead and deliver our organisation-wide People and Culture strategy, aligned to our mission and long‑term goals.
- Act as a trusted adviser to senior leadership and Trustees on all workforce, culture and organisational development matters.
- Shape a high‑performing, inclusive culture where colleagues and volunteers feel valued, supported and inspired.
- Drive workforce planning, organisational design and leadership capability to enable future success.
- Champion an outstanding employee and volunteer experience, from attraction through to development and engagement.
- Lead our equity, diversity and inclusion agenda, embedding inclusive practice across everything we do.
- Use data and insight to inform decisions, measure impact and continuously improve outcomes.
- Oversee learning and development, talent management and succession planning.
- Ensure strong governance across people policies, employee relations, risk and compliance.
- Lead organisational change and transformation programmes with confidence and care.
What we are looking for:
We’re looking for a strategic, values‑led leader who brings both expertise and impact. You will have:
- MCIPD/FCIPD (or equivalent experience).
- Significant experience leading a People/HR/OD function at senior level in a complex organisation.
- A strong track record of delivering organisation‑wide people strategies and cultural change.
- Experience of organisational transformation, workforce planning and organisational design.
- Proven ability to influence and advise senior leaders, executives and boards.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, governance and employee relations.
- Experience using people data and insights to drive decision‑making and measure success.
- Outstanding communication and relationship‑building skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
- A clear commitment to equity, inclusion, wellbeing and values‑led leadership.
- The ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery in a complex, evolving environment.
How to apply and interview dates:
If you feel excited by this role and believe you have the necessary skills and experience to become a valued team member, please go to our website and apply. The deadline for applying for this role is: Sunday 26th July - Midnight. 1st interviews will take place between: Week commencing 10th August - week commencing 17th August, to be held virtually via MS Teams. 2nd interviews will take place between: 24th August to 4th September - Interviews will be in London.
If you would like to access the application form in a different format or if you would like any assistance that might help improve your experience while completing the application, please contact us by email recruitment@dofe.org.
Benefits:
We offer excellent staff benefits including a generous pension contribution, an employee assistance programme, healthcare cash plan and volunteer leave. Also, 25 days holiday, plus Bank Holidays and an additional 3 days paid leave between Christmas and the New Year. Buy additional annual leave, benefits discount website, death in service benefit 4 x salary, incapacity benefit, generous family leave and sick leave.
The DofE are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. All successful applicants will be required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, including references covering any gaps of employment/education, confirm eligibility to work in the UK and complete a health check.
The geographical allowance is based on a member of staff having a home or office‑based postcode within 30 miles (as the crow flies) from Charing Cross, WC2N 5HS. The allowance is 7% capped at £4,000 per annum.
Director or People & Culture employer: The Duke of Edinburgh's Award
At DofE, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions a high-performing and inclusive culture. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave policies and professional development opportunities, all while fostering a collaborative environment where every voice is valued. Join us in shaping the future of our organisation as we embark on our ambitious World Ready strategy, making a meaningful impact alongside a dedicated team of over 400 colleagues and 5,000 partner organisations.
Contact Details:
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director or People & Culture
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We think you need these skills to ace Director or People & Culture
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