At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR initiatives and support schools in creating a positive workplace culture.
- Company: Join a vibrant multi-academy trust dedicated to educational excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, collaborative networking, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a commitment to safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of students and staff across multiple schools.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or 7 preferred; significant HR experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
About Us
drb Ignite Multi Academy Trust is a vibrant and growing charitable organisation that operates a unique family of fourteen primary schools, including thirteen community schools and one Church of England school. Established in October 2014, the Trust is committed to driving educational excellence across the West Midlands, working collaboratively across Birmingham and Dudley to share expertise and resources for sustained school improvement.
About the Role
The Senior People Manager plays a pivotal role in developing and delivering an effective people function across the Trust. Working closely with the Director of People, senior leaders and school‑based colleagues, you will provide expert advice, support and challenge, ensuring people practices are consistent, compliant and aligned with strategic priorities. The position involves leading complex employee relations matters, supporting organisational change, overseeing recruitment, payroll processes and workforce data, and contributing to the Trust’s People Strategy to embed a positive, inclusive and high‑performing culture.
About You
Ideally you are CIPD qualified to Level 5 or Level 7 (or willing to gain such a qualification) and have significant experience advising on complex HR casework. You should have a demonstrable track record in a senior HR role, experience managing change programmes, restructures, TUPE processes and a strong working knowledge of employment law. Experience within a school, education or multi‑academy trust environment is desirable but not essential.
What to Expect
- Supportive and developmental culture
- High quality CPD opportunities and career development programmes
- Collaborative networking across the Trust
- Professional growth and learning opportunities
Safeguarding, References and DBS
In line with Safer Recruitment Practice, a minimum of two references will be sought for shortlisted candidates prior to interview. One reference must be from the candidate’s current or most recent employer. An enhanced DBS check will be required for this post, and the Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults through its safer recruitment processes. Applicants are encouraged to review our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, which outlines the Trust’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of students.
Senior People Manager in Birmingham employer: WMJobs
drb Ignite Multi Academy Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and developmental culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. With high-quality CPD opportunities and collaborative networking across its fourteen primary schools, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the educational excellence of the West Midlands. Joining our team means being part of a vibrant community committed to inclusivity and high performance, making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior People Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of drb Ignite Multi Academy Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Trust's values and recent initiatives. We want to see how your experience aligns with their mission, so be ready to share specific examples from your past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your people skills! As a Senior People Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to handle complex HR issues. Be prepared to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully navigated challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at drb Ignite.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior People Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education shine through! We want to see how your values align with our mission at drb Ignite Multi Academy Trust. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to educational excellence in your previous roles.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in HR and people management. We’re looking for someone who can navigate complex employee relations and support organisational change, so be sure to showcase your skills and achievements that relate directly to the role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and qualifications. Avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the Senior People Manager position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our vibrant community at drb Ignite Multi Academy Trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of a Senior People Manager. Brush up on your knowledge of employment law, complex HR casework, and organisational change processes. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to handle employee relations, manage change programmes, and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with drb Ignite Multi Academy Trust’s mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding educational excellence and collaboration. This shows you’re not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of their team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about their People Strategy or how they support professional growth within the Trust. It demonstrates your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
