Director of People

Whalley Range 11-18 High School; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education trust based in Manchester is seeking a Director of People to lead the GMET People Strategy. This role requires significant HR leadership experience, a passion for developing people, and strong interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate will champion inclusion and support employee wellbeing. Join a diverse team focused on providing excellent education and support across schools. The role offers comprehensive benefits including professional development opportunities and a supportive culture.

Benefits

Comprehensive professional development

Health cash plans

Generous pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Significant experience in strategic HR leadership and organisational culture.
• Demonstrated passion for developing people and creating a great workplace.
• Commitment to equity, transparency, and continuous professional development.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of the GMET People Strategy.
• Champion equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Advise the Board on workforce trends and organisational design.

Skills

Strategic HR leadership

Organisational culture

Change management

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Collaborative skills

Education

Postgraduate qualification in Human Resources

Chartered CIPD membership

Job description

All Year Round Flexible Working Requests Considered

About GMET

Greater Manchester Education Trust (GMET) was established in 2022 following the successful merger of two local multi‑academy trusts. We currently oversee four academies and two sixth‑form colleges, working in some of the most academically, socially, and ethnically diverse communities in the region. GMET is a diverse and inclusive Trust for young people of all backgrounds in Greater Manchester while providing the best learning, support and a sense of belonging so every child and adult can fulfil their ambition and have a great future.

The Role

As Director of People you will lead the GMET People Strategy, embedding our vision, values and strategic priorities in workforce planning, culture and development, fostering a culture of connection and collaboration across all schools, driving organisational effectiveness, championing equality, diversity and inclusion, overseeing pay frameworks, talent management and professional development pathways, leading on employee wellbeing and engagement and advising the Board and Executive Team on workforce trends, organisational design and culture development. You will also ensure compliance with safeguarding, safer recruitment and employment legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of the GMET People Strategy, embedding our vision, values and strategic priorities in all aspects of workforce planning, culture and development.
• Foster a culture of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose across all schools.
• Drive organisational effectiveness through consistent HR systems, processes, and delivery models.
• Champion equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring equitable and inclusive hiring and development.
• Oversee pay frameworks, talent management, and professional development pathways.
• Lead on employee wellbeing, engagement, and workload management, supporting a healthy work‑life balance for all colleagues.
• Advise the Board and Executive Team on workforce trends, organisational design, and culture development.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, safer recruitment, and employment legislation.

About You

We are looking for an ethical, values‑driven leader who:

• Has significant experience in strategic HR leadership, organisational culture, and change management.
• Demonstrates a passion for developing people and creating a great place to work.
• Possesses excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaborative skills.
• Is committed to equity, transparency, and continuous professional development.
• Models our core values of excellence, care, and respect in all interactions.

A postgraduate qualification (Level 7) in Human Resources or a related field is essential – or a commitment to work towards this, supported by the Trust. Chartered CIPD membership is desirable.

Why Join GMET?

At GMET, we believe that great futures are built by great people. Every colleague in our schools experiences the same focus on care, guidance, opportunity, and challenge that we provide for our learners. We strive for excellence in everything we do and value every role, whether teaching or support. When you join GMET, you’ll be part of a trust that puts people at the heart of its strategy, supported and empowered to grow within an inclusive, ambitious environment where wellbeing and professional development are priorities.

What We Offer

• A warm, inclusive, and supportive school culture
• High expectations for all learners and staff
• A strong focus on wellbeing and professional development
• Opportunities to innovate and collaborate across the trust
• A commitment to equity, diversity, and accessibility
• Tailored CPD and coaching
• Trust‑wide networks and learning communities
• Leadership development pathways
• Access to wellbeing resources and flexible working options

Employee Benefits

• Comprehensive professional development and clear career pathways
• Health cash plans and generous pension scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Flexible working options
• Blue Light Card and similar discount schemes
• Free parking and more

Additional Information

Shortlisting for the role will take place on Tuesday 6 January with interviews being held on Monday 12 and Tuesday 13 January. All roles are subject to:

• Enhanced DBS checks
• Reference and identity verification and other pre‑employment checks.
• Compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

We are committed to safeguarding, child protection and promoting the wellbeing of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

If you have any questions or would like to arrange an informal discussion with the CEO or a visit, please email: [e-mail].