Coo jobs in United Kingdom

HR Business Partner

Reporting to the COO and working closely with the Head, you will lead on both operational and strategic HR matters. You’ll act as a trusted partner to management and leadership teams, coaching them to effectively manage and develop their people. You will also line manage a full-time HR Administrator, ensuring the smooth delivery of HR services.

Hours: 32 hours per week, 52 weeks per year

Salary: £45,000 – £50,000 FTE (depending on qualifications and experience)

• Lead on all aspects of the HR lifecycle and strategic HR projects.
• Develop and monitor people processes, systems, and policies to ensure consistency.
• Oversee performance and development frameworks aligned with school values.
• Keep up to date with HR trends and advise senior leadership and the Governing Board.
• Ensure legal compliance and coach managers on employee relations matters.
• Prepare reports and updates for the Governing Board.
• Manage end-to-end recruitment and onboarding, ensuring compliance with Safer Recruitment and ISI standards.
• Oversee payroll, pensions, benefits, and wellbeing provision.
• Support managers with performance management, absence management, and employee engagement.
• Drive continuous improvement across the HR function.

• Experience: Minimum 5 years in HR Generalist or Business Partner roles.
• Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or above (or equivalent HR-related degree).
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK employment law and its practical application.
• Skills: Strategic thinking, problem-solving, and ability to work independently.
• Desirable: Experience in a school environment (not essential).

• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
• Proactive, organised, and able to manage both operational and strategic priorities.
• Resilient, adaptable, and passionate about improving the people agenda.
• High attention to detail and commitment to positive outcomes.

You’ll be part of a supportive team in a dynamic school environment, with the opportunity to influence and improve HR practices that make a real difference to staff and students alike.

Apply today and help us shape the future of St Catherine's!

If you wish to be considered for an advertised position, please write a letter of application indicating clearly why you feel you have the qualifications and skills necessary. You should also complete an application form and, if you wish, present your own Curriculum Vitae to complement the other documents. Please ensure that you give a full history of your educational and employment career to date.

Please note that applications will be assessed in order of receipt and interviews may occur at any stage after applications are received. Please apply as soon as possible.

St Catherine’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS and barred list check. The School is an equal opportunities employer.