About the job

About Fettes College

Inspiring people. Shaping culture. Driving opportunity.

Fettes College is one of the UK’s leading independent schools, renowned for delivering an education that nurtures curiosity, aspiration and personal growth. As we look toward an ambitious future, we are seeking an outstanding Director of Human Resources to lead our people strategy and help shape the experience of more than 300 staff who make our community so extraordinary.

If you are a forward thinking HR leader who thrives on influence, collaboration and meaningful impact, this is a role where your expertise will truly matter.

About the role

As our Director of Human Resources, you will lead the full HR function and act as a trusted adviser to the Bursar, Head, Senior Leadership Team and Governors. You will define and deliver a modern, progressive HR strategy that supports our organisational ambitions, enhances our culture, and ensures we continue to attract, develop and retain exceptional people. You will lead a small, dedicated HR team.

About you

People Strategy & Organisational Development

Shape and deliver a forward looking HR strategy aligned to the College’s vision.
Lead on workforce planning, organisational design and succession planning.
Enhance culture, engagement and the staff experience across all areas of the school.

HR Operations & Professional Advice

Oversee high quality HR support, ensuring compliance, best practice and inclusive processes.
Provide confident, pragmatic advice to senior leaders on all people matters.
Lead on employee relations, supporting fair, timely and constructive resolution.

Performance, Learning & Development

Drive continuous professional development from induction to leadership pathways.
Ensure meaningful appraisal and performance frameworks for academic and operational staff.
Develop management capability through coaching, toolkits and training.

Recruitment & Resourcing

Lead the end-to-end recruitment strategy, ensuring high quality candidate experience and Safer Recruitment compliance.
Support future workforce planning and the hiring of specialist and consultancy roles.

Compliance & HR Systems

Ensure HR policies are current, compliant and effectively communicated.
Maintain oversight of personnel records, onboarding and data accuracy.
Keep the school informed of employment law developments and sector best practice.

Leadership & Collaboration

Provide clear direction and inspiring leadership to the HR team.
Champion positive communication and build strong, trusted relationships across the school.
Promote a culture of professionalism, care and continuous improvement.

What you'll bring

Essential:

Significant experience in senior HR leadership, including complex casework, policy design and organisational change.
Deep knowledge of employment law and its practical application.
Strong stakeholder management and the ability to influence at every level.
A proactive, solutions focused approach and excellent communication skills.

Desirable:

Experience in a standalone senior HR role or in a multifaceted organisation.
CIPD membership (Chartered level preferred).
Experience in education or similarly regulated environments.
Knowledge of HR information systems and commitment to continuous professional development.

What's on offer

This is a chance to make a lasting impact in a values driven community where people are at the heart of everything we do. Our staff enjoy:

30 days’ holiday plus 8 public holidays
Free Westwoods gym membership and excellent leisure facilities
Free lunch during term time
Life insurance (3x salary)
Pension with up to 12% employer contribution
Employee Assistance Programme & wellbeing support
Access to staff remission of school fees
Discounted healthcare and shopping benefits
Free parking and strong public transport links

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV and Covering Letter to Jaclyn Needham at applications@fwbltd.com or call her on 0131 539 7087 for an initial confidential conversation.

FWB

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Director of Human Resources