Director of People & Culture

Waddington Brown are working with a valued client established in the Education Sector within North Essex where people are at the heart of everything they do. We’re looking for an inspiring Director of People & Culture to help drive their ambitious vision forward.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the People & Culture function, delivering a proactive and people-focused service across the Trust. You’ll work closely with the CEO, Chief Operations & Finance Officer (COFO) and senior leaders to develop and implement a dynamic People & Culture strategy that champions staff wellbeing, growth, inclusion, and excellence.

Working on site, as the Director of People & Culture, you’ll be instrumental in making the Trust a truly outstanding place to work — where every individual can thrive.

Benefits for the Director of People & Culture role include:

• Competitive salary - £61,000 - £67,000
• Excellent pension scheme
• Healthcare cashback plan
• Discounted gym membership & wellbeing initiatives
• EAP
• Perkbox discounts
• Cycle to work scheme

What you'll be doing as Director of People & Culture:

• Leading the development and delivery of the Trust’s People & Culture Strategy
• Overseeing all aspects of employee development: safer recruitment, wellbeing, retention, engagement, diversity and reward
• Advising senior leaders and Trustees on employment law, casework, and best practice
• Strengthening relationships with Trade Union representatives and other key stakeholders
• Managing complex employee relations issues and HR casework
• Overseeing recruitment processes and ensuring safer recruitment practices are embedded across the Trust
• Leading and developing the People & Culture team to deliver outstanding support
• Using data-driven insights to shape future HR strategies and workforce planning
• Promoting a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and inclusivity

What we’re looking for as Director of People & Culture:

• A CIPD Level 5 qualification (or equivalent by experience)
• Proven success leading HR strategy at a senior level, ideally in a medium to large organisation
• In-depth knowledge of employment law and HR best practice
• Experience working with senior leaders and presenting high-level reports
• Outstanding communication, organisational and leadership skills
• A people-first mindset, with resilience, compassion, and a commitment to excellence

Experience working in a school HR function and knowledge of pay and conditions for teaching and local government staff would be an advantage, but not essential.

This role will be based on site in Clacton-on-Sea with occasional remote working granted. Possible part time hours (4 days) might be considered for the right candidate. If this role sounds of interest, please reach out to Eithne Sanders at Waddington Brown for more information.