Associate Director HR Services

DN Colleges Group; Doncaster; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic educational organisation is seeking an Associate Director of HR Services to lead transformational change within the HR function. Responsibilities include spearheading strategic HR initiatives, overseeing engagement programs, and ensuring inclusive recruitment practices. The ideal candidate will bring strong HR management experience, excellent interpersonal skills, and a coaching background. Join a values-driven team that prioritizes employee well-being and cultural transformation, offering attractive benefits and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

35 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Enhanced pension and health schemes

Access to wellbeing initiatives

Flexible and part-time working opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven management experience in HR or OD functions.
• Skilled in translating data into strategic decisions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic HR projects focused on employee experience.
• Oversee engagement campaigns and wellbeing programmes.
• Champion inclusive recruitment practices.

Skills

Demonstratable experience in HR roles

Skills in leading change

Strong interpersonal skills

Ability to engage stakeholders

Education

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent

Coaching qualification (Level 5)

Job description

About the Role

Are you an experienced HR professional ready to lead transformational change across a dynamic and values-driven organisation? We are seeking a strategic and forward-thinking Associate Director of HR Services to join our People Services team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our workforce and culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategic HR projects that enhance employee experience, retention and organisational performance.
• Oversee the design and delivery of engagement campaigns, wellbeing programmes and recognition schemes.
• Champion inclusive recruitment practices and workforce planning in collaboration with the Talent Acquisition Manager.
• Drive organisational culture transformation through data-informed OD interventions.
• Manage budgets and external partnerships across wellbeing, reward and development.
• Support leadership development and succession planning through targeted training and coaching.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, equality legislation and best practice HR standards.

What We’re Looking For

• Demonstratable experience in a Human Resources or Organisational Development function with proven management experience.
• Translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic decisions.
• Build trust, inspire change and lead cross-functional teams.
• Design and implement appraisal frameworks, engagement surveys and OD initiatives.
• Manage multiple projects and budgets with agility and accountability.
• Deliver impactful presentations and facilitate workshops and coaching sessions.
• Engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders including contractors and service providers.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

• CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience.
• Coaching qualification (Level 5).
• Experience in survey design and analysis, budget management and contract oversight.
• Skilled in presenting data, leading change and delivering OD interventions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a solution-focused mindset.

Desirable

• Degree in Organisational Development.
• Accreditation in employee engagement survey methodologies.
• Practitioner in cultural support tools.
• Experience embedding reward and recognition through pay structures and development plans.

Why Join Us

• 35 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays and 8 additional days during the Christmas closedown – over 51 days off per year.
• Enhanced pension and health schemes.
• Access to wellbeing initiatives including Vivup.
• Flexible and part-time working opportunities including job share options.
• A collaborative, inclusive and values-driven environment.
• Opportunities to lead strategic projects and shape the future of HR services.
• A culture that values continuous learning, staff voice and innovation.

Additional Information

Safer Recruitment: As part of the recruitment process and in line with keeping children safe in education we will conduct social media checks on shortlisted candidates. Additionally before commencing employment all employees undergo safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS.

Right to Work: Applicants must be authorised to work in the UK. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and help us build a thriving inclusive workplace where people feel valued, supported and inspired.

Closing Date: 23 / 11 / 25

Interviews: w / c 01 / 12 / 25