HR Manager – Secondary Academy in Cheshire

Marchant Recruitment; Oldham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A notable educational institution in Cheshire is seeking an experienced HR Manager to lead its HR function. This role involves overseeing recruitment, employee relations, compliance, and staff development. The ideal candidate will have significant HR experience in a school or similar environment, alongside strong interpersonal and leadership skills. This strategic position will play a key role in working with senior leadership and staff to develop effective HR strategies that promote staff wellbeing and development.

Qualifications

• Minimum CIPD Level 5 required; Level 7 preferred.
• Strong HR experience in school or public sector.
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full HR cycle including recruitment and onboarding.
• Lead on complex employee relations matters.
• Provide HR advice to senior leadership.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Leadership skills

Education

CIPD Level 5

CIPD Level 7

Job description

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Start Date: April 2026

Location: Cheshire (Chester / Warrington area)

About the Role

A successful and high-performing secondary academy (11–18) in Cheshire is seeking an experienced HR Manager to lead and develop the school’s HR function. As part of the central Trust HR structure, the HR Manager will oversee recruitment, compliance, employee relations, and staff development initiatives. This is a strategic and operational role, ideal for someone with strong HR experience who can work effectively with SLT, staff, and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full HR cycle including recruitment, payroll liaison, vetting, and onboarding
• Lead on complex employee relations matters including disciplinary, capability, and attendance
• Provide expert HR advice to SLT, heads of department, and governors
• Ensure full compliance with KCSIE, safer recruitment guidance, and employment law
• Oversee SCR accuracy and carry out regular audits
• Implement staff wellbeing strategies and oversee the annual appraisal process
• Contribute to workforce planning and Trust-wide HR development

About You

• CIPD Level 5 minimum; Level 7 desirable
• Strong experience in HR within a school, MAT, or public sector organisation
• Excellent interpersonal, organisational, and leadership skills
• Confident handling ER casework and advising senior leaders