At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and support staff development at a vibrant college.
- Company: West Thames College, a top further and higher education institution in London.
- Benefits: Excellent facilities, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a values-driven team committed to safeguarding and supporting students.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on staff and student success in a diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR management and a passion for inclusive organisational culture.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
West Thames College is one of the most exciting and successful colleges of further and higher education in London, with vibrant campuses in Isleworth and Feltham that have some of the best facilities in the country. We have a reputation for giving excellent support to our diverse student population. Staff are well supported within a culture of continuous professional development and are encouraged to take on new and more senior roles within the college. Facilities across our campuses are state-of-the-art with good public transport links and free staff parking.
We are a values-based and highly inclusive college, serving a vibrant and diverse area, and making a positive contribution to wider social and economic agendas. We offer courses from pre-entry through to Higher Education, Apprenticeship and Traineeship programmes to meet the skills needs of our students aged 14 upwards. At West Thames College, we are committed to safeguarding our students. The safety of students continues to be a primary focus. We practice safe staff recruitment and check the suitability of staff and volunteers that work with young students or vulnerable adults. Please note that it is an offence to apply for a role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.
The purpose of the role:
- Working closely with the CEO & Principal, Executive Director Finance, HR & Development and the College Management Team to develop a Human Resources Strategy for the College.
- Developing the strategic direction, reflecting the College’s values and principles, championing a customer-focused set of business processes and providing a high-quality, professional advice service.
- Leadership of workforce planning, organisational development, employee engagement, leadership capability and the development of a positive and inclusive organisational culture.
- Advising, assisting and supporting the CEO & Principal, Executive Director Finance, HR & Development and the College Management Team in the deployment, management and development of staff.
- Responsible for the development and management of the College’s HR function and implementing the HR strategy, including policies, procedures, practices and development plans.
- Managing organisational development; employee relations; recruitment and selection; performance management; professional development of staff; reward and recognition; and absence management.
- Ensuring effective provision of training and support for all staff employed by the College.
Employee Benefits: Full details of the post can be found in the Job Description and Person Specification.
Head of Human Resources and Professional Development in Isleworth employer: West Thames College
As a L6 Careers Advisor at our Middlesex location, you will join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to empowering students through comprehensive career guidance. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that values professional development, offering numerous opportunities for growth and advancement within the educational sector. With a commitment to inclusivity and excellence, we ensure that our employees are equipped with the resources they need to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources and Professional Development in Isleworth
✨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 West Thames College!
✨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.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
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 West Thames College.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources and Professional Development in Isleworth
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 West Thames College. 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 West Thames College 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 West Thames College. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to West Thames College'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 West Thames College
✨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 West Thames College.
✨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 West Thames College 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 West Thames College and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
