Director of People and Organisational Development

At St Giles Trust, people are at the heart of everything we do. We're looking for an exceptional Director of People & Organisational Development to join our Leadership Team and help shape the future of our organisation. This is a rare opportunity to influence strategy at the highest level while leading a modern, inclusive and data-driven people function that enables our teams to deliver lasting impact for the communities we serve.  

As a key member of the Leadership Team, you will provide strategic leadership across workforce planning, organisational development, employee relations, reward, recruitment, learning and development, culture, engagement and internal communications. You'll play a pivotal role in building a high-performing, sustainable workforce that supports the delivery of our mission and long-term ambitions.  

About the role 

Leading a People Directorate of 13 colleagues through four direct reports, you will: 

• Develop and deliver a forward-thinking People Strategy aligned to organisational goals.  
• Advise the Executive Team, Board and senior leaders on workforce strategy, culture, organisational effectiveness and people risks.  
• Lead workforce planning, succession planning and talent development initiatives that ensure future capability and sustainability.  
• Drive organisational development, leadership capability and cultural transformation programmes.  
• Oversee employee relations, HR policy, governance and compliance, ensuring best practice across the organisation.  
• Champion inclusive recruitment, career development and workforce diversity.  
• Use workforce analytics and insight to inform strategic decision-making and improve organisational performance.  
• Lead the people aspects of organisational change, transformation and service redesign programmes.  
• Support Board committees through high-quality reporting, assurance and strategic workforce insights.  

We're looking for an experienced and credible people leader who combines strategic thinking with operational excellence. 

You will bring: 

• Significant senior leadership experience within HR, People or Organisational Development.  
• A strong track record of designing and delivering people strategies that drive organisational success. 
• Expertise across workforce planning, employee relations, organisational development, learning and development, reward and engagement.  
• Demonstrable experience leading large-scale organisational change and culture development programmes.  
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and contemporary people practices.  
• Experience advancing equality, diversity and inclusion within complex organisations.  
• Outstanding influencing, communication and stakeholder management skills.  
• MCIPD qualification.  

Why join us? 

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a values-led organisation committed to social justice, inclusion and helping people build positive futures. You'll work alongside an ambitious leadership team, shape organisational culture, and help create an environment where colleagues can thrive and deliver their best work.  

We are seeking a leader who embodies integrity, inclusion and collaboration; someone who can inspire others, navigate complexity with confidence and help build an organisation where people feel valued, supported and empowered.  

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion 

St Giles Trust is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from individuals whose lived experiences can help strengthen our mission and culture.  

Apply today and help shape the future of our people, our culture and our impact. 

It is a permanent contract. 

A basic DBS check is required for this role.