Are you an experienced operational HR leader looking to make a real impact in the charity and supported housing sector? We are seeking a Head of People and Culture to provide senior operational leadership across our HR and People function during a period of maternity leave. Working closely with the Executive Director of People and Culture, you will play a vital role in translating our strategic goals into smooth, high-quality, day-to-day HR operations. In this hands‑on leadership post, you will lead an established operational team to deliver responsive employee relations guidance, talent acquisition, policy implementation, compliance management, and payroll integrations across SSJ. You will report to the Executive Director of People and Culture and be accountable for the Training Manager, People & Culture Advisors, and the People & Culture Admin.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership: Lead and manage the operational People and Culture team (Advisors, Administrators, and Training Lead), embedding high standards of service delivery.
- Employee Relations & Advisory: Oversee complex employee relations casework, formal disciplinaries, grievances, absence management, and trade union consultations.
- Recruitment & Onboarding: Manage day‑to‑day talent acquisition workflows, values‑based recruitment, and pre‑employment compliance checks.
- Policy & Compliance Assurance: Ensure strict operational compliance with UK employment law, Right to Work, DBS standards, CQC requirements, and GDPR.
- Systems & Payroll Integration: Oversee HRIS operations, produce operational workforce metrics, and manage monthly payroll data coordination with Finance.
- Change Management: Support service managers through organisational change, restructuring, and TUPE transfers.
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Qualifications
- A CIPD Level 5 or Level 7 qualification (Associate or Chartered status) or equivalent extensive operational HR leadership experience.
- Operational HR Expertise: Substantial experience managing operational HR service delivery and direct line management of HR team members.
- Employee Relations Mastery: Proven experience advising line managers on complex ER cases, TUPE processes, restructuring, and working constructively with trade unions.
- Compliance Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of UK employment law, statutory pre‑employment standards (DBS/Right to Work), CQC regulations, and GDPR.
- Skills: Strong problem‑solving abilities, proficiency with HRIS systems and data reporting, and a collaborative, solution‑focused communication style.
- Mobility & Values: Alignment with SSJ's core mission and values, plus a valid UK Driving Licence with access to a vehicle for operational site visits.
- Sector Experience: Prior experience in the charity, social care, voluntary, or supported housing sector is highly desirable.
Organisation
The Society of St James is a leading Hampshire-based homelessness charity delivering housing, care, and support services to vulnerable adults across the region. We are passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges related to homelessness, addiction, mental health, and social exclusion, creating lasting positive change in our communities.
SSJ are an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life.
If you are an energetic, strategic‑minded operational HR specialist looking for a rewarding interim role, we would love to hear from you.
We do reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the advertised end date.
Organisation profile
The Society of St James View profile Registered Charity 101 - 500
Benefits and Compensation
- Competitive salary of £46,000 - £50,000 per annum.
- Generous annual leave and sick pay, employer pension, salary sacrifice, flexible working.
- Up to 12 months fixed‑term contract offering senior leadership experience in a values‑driven organisation.
- A supportive, collaborative working environment working directly alongside the Executive Director.
- The opportunity to shape workplace culture and support teams making a genuine difference to vulnerable people.
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Head of People and Culture in Southampton employer: The Society of St James
The Society of St James (SSJ) is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community, particularly in Hampshire. With over 50 years of experience, SSJ offers a supportive work culture that values its staff as its greatest assets, providing generous benefits such as flexible working options, comprehensive training, and well-being services. Joining SSJ means being part of a dynamic team committed to equal opportunities and making a difference in the lives of those facing homelessness and substance use challenges.
