At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR projects and provide expert advice to a dynamic education organisation.
- Company: A growing multi-academy trust in Wakefield with a values-driven culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape people strategy.
- Other info: Join during an exciting period of development with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while leading a dedicated HR team.
- Qualifications: Significant senior-level HR experience and strong understanding of employment law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Tradewind Recruitment is delighted to be recruiting for an experienced Head of Human Resources (Head of HR) on behalf of a successful and growing multi-academy trust in Wakefield. This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic and operational HR leader to make an immediate impact within a values-driven education organisation. The successful candidate will lead on a range of high-profile HR projects while providing expert advice and leadership to the Trust's established HR team.
The Role
- Leading the successful conclusion of an ongoing organisational restructure and redundancy process within one of the Trust's primary schools.
- Reviewing Teaching and Learning Responsibility (TLR) payments in line with the School Teachers' Pay and Conditions Document 2026, supporting the implementation of any required changes across the Trust.
- Working collaboratively with the HR team to develop, consult on and implement a new probation policy that reflects the requirements of the Employment Rights Act 2026.
- Ensuring the Trust has robust policies, procedures and risk assessments in place to meet its statutory duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.
- Providing effective leadership, management and professional support to the in-house HR team, comprising HR Managers and an HR Adviser, while overseeing complex employee relations casework and delivering high-quality HR advice.
About You
- We are seeking an experienced HR professional who can demonstrate significant senior-level HR leadership experience, ideally within the education or public sector.
- A strong understanding of employment law and employee relations, including organisational change and redundancy.
- Experience developing and implementing HR policies and procedures.
- The ability to manage and develop an established HR team while building strong relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders.
- Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills, with the confidence to work strategically while remaining hands-on when required.
Why Apply?
This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking multi-academy trust during an exciting period of development. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping people strategy, driving organisational improvement and ensuring the Trust continues to provide an outstanding working environment for its employees.
For more information or to apply for the exciting opportunity in Wakefield, contact Tradewind Recruitment today. We look forward to supporting you through the recruitment process.
Head of HR in Wakefield employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Tradewind Recruitment offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for HR professionals looking to make a significant impact in the education sector. As part of a growing multi-academy trust in Wakefield, employees benefit from a values-driven culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to meaningful organisational change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR in Wakefield
✨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 Tradewind Recruitment!
✨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 Tradewind Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR in Wakefield
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 Tradewind Recruitment. 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 Tradewind Recruitment 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 Tradewind Recruitment. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Tradewind Recruitment'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 Tradewind Recruitment
✨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 Tradewind Recruitment.
✨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 Tradewind Recruitment 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 Tradewind Recruitment and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
