Head of People – Operations

Salary: NJC Point 30–34 (£40,777 – £45,091 FTE)

Contract: Permanent

Location: Hybrid working / flexible

Hours: Full-time (37 hrs/week, 52 weeks)

Excalibur Academies Trust is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of People – Operations to lead the delivery of HR services across our 20 academies. This is a pivotal role, reporting to the Chief of People, ensuring our people infrastructure supports high-quality education by driving efficiency, compliance, and innovation in HR operations.

About the Role

You will oversee HR systems, payroll, workforce planning, and compliance, ensuring seamless processes from recruitment through to exit. With a strong focus on digital transformation, you’ll champion the adoption of technology to enhance service delivery and employee experience.

Key Responsibilities

•                          Lead HR operations and systems, ensuring compliance with statutory and DfE requirements.

•                          Drive workforce planning and recruitment processes across multiple academies.

          Oversee payroll, pensions, and benefits administration with accuracy and efficiency.

          Ensure compliance with Single Central Record (SCR) and HR data management.

          Working alongside the Head of People Engagement, implement HR policies and maintain audit readiness.

•                          Champion process improvement and digital transformation in HR operations.

•                          Provide high-quality HR service delivery and support to academy leaders and staff.

•                          Line manage the People Operations Team, fostering collaboration and professional growth.

Candidate Profile

We’re looking for someone with:

•                          CIPD Level 5 qualification (essential); MCIPD preferred.

•                          Extensive HR operations experience, ideally within education or a MAT environment.

•                          Strong knowledge of DfE regulations, payroll systems, and HR compliance frameworks.

•                          Proven ability to manage HR systems, workforce analytics, and process optimisation.

•                          Experience leading digital transformation in HR operations.

•                          Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

•                          Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

At Excalibur Academies Trust, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment. You’ll play a key role in shaping our HR operations, ensuring staff feel valued and supported while contributing to the success of our academies.

Safeguarding & Compliance

Excalibur Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance, and verification of qualifications and right to work in the UK.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to make a real impact in HR operations and join a Trust that values innovation, compliance, and staff wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your application form and supporting statement via our recruitment portal by the closing date.