Director of People

Endeavourmat; Wolverhampton; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A multi-academy trust in Wolverhampton seeks a strategic HR professional as Director of People. This leadership role involves developing the People Strategy for recruitment and retention while promoting a positive workplace culture across schools. Candidates should ideally possess a CIPD Level 7 qualification, significant senior HR experience, and strong interpersonal skills. This position offers flexible working arrangements and a commitment to staff wellbeing, making it an exciting opportunity during a period of growth.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Strong commitment to staff wellbeing

Access to Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a senior HR role, ideally in education or multi-site organisation.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
• Track record of leading change and developing high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a trust-wide People Strategy for recruitment and retention.
• Lead on workforce planning, organisational development, and HR compliance.
• Champion a positive culture across all schools in the Trust.

Skills

HR leadership

Interpersonal skills

Change management

Influencing skills

Education

CIPD Level 7 qualification or equivalent

Job description

Start date: April 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)

Endeavour Multi Academy Trust is seeking to appoint an exceptional and strategic HR professional to the newly created role of Director of People. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to shape and lead the Trust’s People Strategy at a time of significant growth and transformation.

With a growing family of special and mainstream schools, Endeavour MAT is committed to creating a culture where every member of staff feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. The Director of People will play a pivotal role in achieving this vision, working closely with the CEO and Executive Team to ensure that our people practices are inclusive, forward-thinking, and aligned with our mission.

About the Role

This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role, responsible for developing and delivering a trust-wide People Strategy that supports recruitment, retention, development, and wellbeing. You will lead on workforce planning, organisational development, and HR compliance, while also building the infrastructure and team needed to support a growing multi-academy trust.

You will be a visible and influential leader, championing a positive and high-performance culture across all schools. Your work will directly impact the experience of every colleague in the Trust, from new starters to senior leaders.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced HR leader who shares our values and ambition. You will bring:

• A CIPD Level 7 qualification (or equivalent) or a willingness to gain the qualification
• Significant experience in a senior HR role, ideally in education or a multi-site organisation
• Strong knowledge of employment law, employee relations, and HR best practice
• A track record of leading change and developing high-performing teams
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to influence at all levels

Experience in a Multi-Academy Trust or education setting is desirable but not essential.

Why Join Endeavour MAT?

This is an exciting time to join Endeavour MAT as we expand our family of schools. You will be part of a collaborative and outward-looking Trust that values innovation, inclusion, and professional growth. We offer:

• A supportive and ambitious leadership team
• Opportunities to shape and grow a new function
• Flexible working arrangements
• A strong commitment to staff wellbeing and development
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

To find out more about this exceptional opportunity please contact Holly Rigby, Assistant to the Executive Board ([e-mail]), to arrange a confidential discussion or a visit to the Trust Offices. Completed application forms should also be emailed to Holly Rigby.

Closing date –16 th January 2026

Selection day – 6 th February 2026

Feedback will only be given to shortlisted candidates.

We welcome applications from previous applicants.

Endeavour MAT are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure from the DBS.