Head of HR

Founded in 1975 by philosophically-inclined parents, our three independent day schools offer a distinctive approach to education which provides for the intellectual, emotional and spiritual development of every child; they aim to provide an environment in which a child can discover all that is best within their own nature.

We actively support our pupils’ emotional wellbeing, focusing on mindfulness and fostering a positive school atmosphere built on mutual respect, trust and kindness.

Our schools enjoy enviable locations in London and Surrey: our Nursery, Preparatory School and Senior Girls’ School are close to Hammersmith and High Street Kensington, while St James Senior Boys’ School occupies a stunning 33-acre site in Ashford, in leafy Surrey, with transport services from London.

This is a central role reporting the Chief Operating Officer the role will provide both operational and strategic leadership to our schools and will work closely with the heads to ensure we have robust HR and People offering. You will work closely with the COO and other members of the Senior Leadership Team to develop and implement HR strategies that align with the school’s individual goals and comply with current employment legislation.

We are seeking an exceptional HR professional with proven experience in a senior HR role, with strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop a team. The successful candidate will have in-depth knowledge of employment law and HR best practices, coupled with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must have a commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with HR practices.

This role is full time full role based in the COO office at Kensington Olympia.

St James Schools offers a competitive salary, pension membership with life assurance cover, generous school fee discount which is applicable to this role, and other lifestyle benefits.

St James Schools is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to attracting and retaining the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and local community.

The College has appointed recruitment specialist Anderson Quigley to support this appointment. For further information or a confidential discussion please contact Hayley Mintern, hayley.mintern@andersonquigley.com or  Samantha Bryan samantha.bryan-ross@andersonquigley.com

Important dates:

• Application closing date: 17^th October
• First stage client interviews: Week commencing 21^st October
• Final panel interviews: Monday, 4 November 2024

Applications should consist of:

• Applications should consist of a CV and covering statement (of no more than 1,000 words) outlining key matching experience and rationale for applying for the post.
• Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete the St James application form in line with safer recruitment practices.