Director of People
Windsor Academy Trust
Location: West Midlands
Salary: £83,704 - £100,430

Shape the Future of Education: Become Our Director of People

Windsor Academy Trust (WAT) is seeking an exceptional individual to join its Executive Team as Director of People. This is a unique opportunity to lead the People Directorate across a high-performing, values-driven multi-academy trust comprising 15 schools in the West Midlands. With over 1,200 staff and 10,000 students, WAT is committed to unlocking academic and personal potential for every learner.

The Director of People will play a pivotal role in delivering one of the five strategic ‘big moves’ of WAT’s strategy. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the successful candidate will lead the next stage and implementation of the Trust’s People Strategy. This includes overseeing HR, People Transformation, and Professional Learning, and ensuring alignment with the Trust’s broader organisational goals.

The role requires a visionary and ethical leader who is collaborative, courageous, and committed to social justice. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in strategic HR leadership, preferably within a multi-site or complex organisation. Experience in education or the public sector is desirable but not essential. The successful applicant will be a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, and will lead initiatives that promote staff wellbeing, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Windsor Academy Trust offers a dynamic and supportive working environment. Staff benefit from generous pension schemes, professional development through the WAT Talent Institute and the National Institute of Teaching Associate College, and a range of wellbeing and lifestyle benefits. These include an Employee Assistance Programme, cycle to work scheme, food and leisure discounts, and flexible working options.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson: Julia Roberts and Jacqueline Lau at (Jacqueline.Lau@GatenbySanderson.com)

Closing date for applications: Monday 7^th July

First stage interviews: 11th or 14th July

Final stage interviews: Tuesday 15th July

Informal conversations with CEO Dawn Haywood are available prior to the closing date.

Windsor Academy Trust is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.