Head of People

Head of People
Location: Leeds (hybrid working)
Salary: up to £63,000

We are partnering with a purpose-led charity organisation currently navigating a significant period of transformation following a recent merger. As part of the evolution of their People function, they are now seeking an experienced Head of People to provide operational leadership and drive forward a high-performing HR service.
This is a pivotal role, sitting just reporting to the Deputy People Director, with responsibility for leading day-to-day HR operations while also supporting strategic organisational development initiatives.

About the Role
This is a broad and impactful position, ideal for a senior HR professional who thrives in both operational leadership and transformation environments.
Key responsibilities include:

Providing operational leadership across HR and payroll, ensuring an effective and responsive People service
Leading on complex employee relations cases, including appeals and high-level issues
Overseeing and supporting a well-established HR team, including recruitment and HR administration functions
Acting as a key partner to senior stakeholders, bridging the gap between operational delivery and strategic direction
Supporting post-merger integration, helping to embed new structures and ways of working
Driving organisational development initiatives, including:
Policy review and redesign
Supporting a full organisational values review
Leading elements of a benefits review and wider implementation project
Working closely with senior leadership, including Directors, to shape and deliver People prioritiesYou will also have the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of project work, depending on your interests and strengths.

About You
We are looking for a confident and credible HR leader with strong operational expertise and the ability to navigate complexity.
Successful candidates are likely to demonstrate:

Experience operating at Senior HR Business Partner or Head of People level with a proven background in leading HR Operational teams
Proven track record of managing HR operations and leading teams across HR, recruitment, and administration
Strong experience of handling complex employee relations cases is an absolute essential
The ability to balance operational delivery with involvement in strategic and organisational development work
Experience working in fast-changing or restructuring environments
A hands-on, pragmatic approach with the confidence to make decisions and influence stakeholdersWhy Apply?

Opportunity to play a key role in a major organisational transformation
Broad scope covering HR operations, ER, and organisational development
Exposure to senior leadership and strategic initiatives
30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Supportive, purpose-driven environment with meaningful work
Additional Information

Hybrid working, with a Leeds base and some travel expected (including to London)
Interviews scheduled for 17th-18th June (flexibility can be offered)
Selection process includes a presentation assessment and panel interview with senior stakeholders
This is an important appointment, and our client is keen to find the right individual who can bring both expertise and energy to the role.
If you are an experienced HR leader looking to make a tangible impact, we would love to hear from you.

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed