Head of Service HR

Suffolk County Council; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

A school trust in Suffolk is seeking a skilled Head of Service HR to lead HR functions and support staff development across its schools. The role involves shaping a high-quality HR service and implementing people strategies to foster a positive environment. Ideal candidates will possess strong HR knowledge and experience in leadership. The position offers a competitive salary and a permanent contract, starting January 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience leading HR functions in multi-site organisations is desirable.
• Strong understanding of HR policy and best practice necessary.
• Proactive and solution-focused with strong planning abilities.

Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver a high-quality HR service supporting schools.
• Collaborate with a forward-thinking team to improve staff and pupil outcomes.
• Implement effective people strategies to enhance organizational culture.

Skills

Experience of leading HR functions in a complex or multi-site organisation

Strong understanding of employment law

Ability to develop and implement effective people strategies

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Strong organisational and planning abilities

Job description

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Job Description

• Penrose Learning Trust
• Address: Colchester, Suffolk CO7 6RJ
• Salary: £40,778 - £58,588 per annum
• Hours: 37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year
• Contract: Permanent. Required from January 2026 - notice period allowing
• Reference: 8175

This is a career-defining opportunity to join our central team at Penrose Learning Trust as Head of Service HR.

We are seeking a skilled and values-driven HR Manager to play a pivotal role in supporting our schools and central teams. This is a key leadership position within our trust, responsible for shaping and delivering a high-quality HR service that supports our people and culture strategy across all phases.

If you are looking for a strategic and operational HR leadership role-working collaboratively with a successful, forward-thinking team that strives for every pupil and member of staff to be the very best version of themselves, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

You will have:

• experience of leading HR functions in a complex or multi-site organisation (education experience desirable but not essential)
• a strong understanding of employment law, HR policy, and best practice
• the ability to develop and implement effective people strategies
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• strong organisational and planning abilities, with a proactive and solution-focused approach.

Penrose Learning Trust was established in 2017 and rebranded in 2023. We are a growing trust, currently comprising four high schools and five primary schools, with a carefully managed approach to expansion. Our schools share a belief that every young person deserves access to excellent educational provision, and we work together to support and drive improvement across all settings.

Our central team, based at East Bergholt High School, includes School Improvement, Finance, HR, Estates, and IT. These teams work collaboratively to support Headteachers and school staff in delivering the best possible education. We pride ourselves on our positive, hardworking ethos and collegiate atmosphere.

How to apply

For further details about the post and how to apply, please visitour website

Closing date: 4 pm, 8 December 2025.

Interview date: 16 December or 19 December 2025.

Penrose Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful candidates will be required to provide references, undergo employment checks and an enhanced disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service.

About the Team

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