London-Based HR Director, Education Group

Direct Recruitment; Greater London; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Direct Recruitment is seeking an experienced HR Director to lead the UK HR function for a group of nurseries, schools and colleges. You will work closely with the CEO and Board to shape people strategy and drive engagement across head office and multi-site operations.

You will oversee HR Business Partners, ensure compliance, and deliver data-driven insights while fostering an inclusive culture and strong leadership development.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading HR at a senior level in a fast-moving, board-facing environment.
• Strong ability to translate people strategy into tangible organisational outcomes.
• Track record of managing employee relations, tribunals, and compliance across multiple sites.

Responsibilities

• Act as the senior people leader for the UK business, partnering with the CEO and Board.
• Shape and deliver a multi-year people strategy aligned with vision and growth.
• Provide the Board with data-led insights on culture, health, and risk.
• Lead strategic projects including organisational design and cross-site integration.
• Oversee the full HR function and manage a team of HR Business Partners across HR Operations and data reporting.
• Maintain high compliance standards and manage complex employee relations, including tribunals when needed.
• Review reward and benefits structures to balance competitiveness with financial realities.
• Champion diversity, wellbeing, and inclusive workplaces across teaching and operations.
• Oversee leadership development, succession planning, and engagement to improve retention.

Skills

HR leadership & strategy

Board communication

Employee relations

Diversity & inclusion

Multi-site operations

Education sector experience

Job description

Direct Recruitment is seeking an experienced HR Director to lead the UK HR function for a group of nurseries, schools and colleges. You will work closely with the CEO and Board to shape people strategy and drive engagement across head office and multi-site operations.

You will oversee HR Business Partners, ensure compliance, and deliver data-driven insights while fostering an inclusive culture and strong leadership development.