Head of HR (The Cavendish Education Trust)

East Sussex County Council; Eastbourne; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Eastbourne is seeking a Head of HR to lead HR strategy and operations. Applicants should have CIPD Level 5 or equivalent and experience in HR within a multi-site or education setting. The role includes overseeing employee relations and compliance. This position offers a full-time contract with a commitment to safeguarding and diversity in education.

Qualifications

• Experience in HR ideally in a multi-site or education setting.
• Commitment to further training in HR operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead HR strategy and operations across multiple sites.
• Provide advice on employee relations and performance management.
• Oversee payroll, pensions, recruitment, and compliance.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Knowledge of employment law

HR best practice

Collaborative mindset

Education

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent

Job description

Description

Hours of work: 37 hours per week

Working pattern: Full‑time term‑time only. (As the position is part‑time / term‑time only, the above salary will be pro‑rata)

Closing date: 9am Monday 20 October 2025

Contact: The Cavendish Education Trust, Eldon Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 1UE

Position Details

Grade: Single Status Grade 11 / 12 (40109 - 45850). Increment to SS12 once CIPD Level 5 is achieved.

Hours: Full year 37 hours per week or term time only (3 weeks to be worked in the school holidays). Salary is pro‑rated (37484 - 42849).

Contract: Permanent. In‑person role covering all Trust schools.

Interview date: Friday 24 October 2025

Starting date: As soon as possible

Role

• Lead HR strategy and operations across multiple sites
• Provide advice on employee relations, restructures and performance management
• Lead attendance management, return‑to‑work and health review meetings
• Oversee payroll, pensions, recruitment, safeguarding and compliance
• Review and develop HR policies, systems and processes
• Line‑manage and develop staff across the team

About You

• CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent) or commitment to undertake this training
• Experience in HR ideally in multi‑site or education setting
• Knowledge of employment law and HR best practice
• A collaborative mindset with excellent communication and organisational skills

Why Join Us

• Play a pivotal role in shaping HR practice across the Trust
• Work alongside a supportive senior leadership team
• Enjoy variety, autonomy and the chance to make a real difference for staff and pupils

Additional Information

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students and expect all those who work with us to share this commitment. This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please visit the DBS website. We give high priority to promoting diversity throughout the school.

Required Experience

Director

Key Skills

• Early Childhood Education
• Classroom Experience
• Education Administration
• Lesson Planning
• Special Education
• Adult Education
• Teaching
• Curriculum Development
• Administrative Experience
• Leadership Experience
• Program Development
• Supervising Experience

Employment Type

Full Time

Experience

Years

Vacancy

1