Head of HR (The Cavendish Education Trust)

EAST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL; Eastbourne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

An education multi-academy trust is seeking a Head of HR to lead the human resources function across multiple sites. This role requires a strong HR background with experience in employee relations and compliance. The successful candidate will have CIPD Level 5 or equivalent and skills in managing HR operations. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on staff wellbeing and development within the Trust.

Qualifications

• Experience in HR, ideally in a multi-site or education setting.
• Knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
• Collaboration and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

HR management

Employee relations

Performance management

Compliance knowledge

Organisational skills

Education

CIPD Level 5+ or equivalent

Job description

The Role

The Head of HR will lead the Trust-wide human resources function across multiple sites, working both strategically and operationally to deliver outstanding support to our schools.

Hours of work: 37 hours per week

Working pattern: Term Time Only + 3 holiday weeks (salary is pro-rated) or Full Time, 52 weeks per year. Permanent contract. This is an in-person role to cover all Trust schools.

Salary: Single Status Grade 11/12 (£40,109 - £45,850)

Closing date: Monday 9am 22 September 2025

Interview date: Friday 26 September 2025

Starting date: as soon as possible

Location: Cavendish Education Trust (CET) is a Multi-Academy Trust, currently 3 schools, committed to excellence in education, staff wellbeing, and professional development. We are looking for a Head of HR to lead our Trust-wide human resources function, working both strategically and operationally to deliver outstanding support to our schools.

Application information: We advise applying promptly for this post as we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received.

The 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

Safeguarding and other requirements

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. For further information about what is required in this process please go to the GOV.UK DBS page.

All school based staff have the responsibility for promoting the safeguarding and welfare of children. All school staff should be aware of the school's Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and work in accordance with this document at all times.

About Us

The Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff will be expected to hold or be willing to obtain an enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services. For further information about what is required in this process please go to GOV.UK DBS page.

Contact for applications

For questions concerning the role, please contact Jon Brown, Chief Operating Officer, via [e-mail]. Please visit our website for further details and the application process at cet.uk/vacancies/.