Director of People
Greater Manchester Education Trust, Manchester, M16 8GWThis job expired on 5 January 2026 – see similar jobs
Start date details
ASAP
Closing date
5 January 2026 at 8am
Date listed
28 November 2025
Job details
Job role
- Administration, HR, data and finance
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Working pattern
- Full time
Contract type
- Permanent
Full-time equivalent salary
- £84,699.00 - £93,424.00 Annually (FTE) L21 - L25
Director of People job summary
All Year Round
Flexible Working Requests Considered
About Greater Manchester Education Trust
Greater Manchester Education Trust (GMET) was established in 2022 following the successful merger of two local multi-academy trusts. We currently oversee four academies and two sixth form colleges, working in some of the most academically, socially, and ethnically diverse communities in the region. The trust is at a point of growth which will further extend the impact and reach of this role.
GMET is a diverse and inclusive Trust for young people of all backgrounds in Greater Manchester. We are committed to providing the best learning, the best support, and a sense of belonging in our community so that every child and adult can fulfil their ambition and have a great future.
To support our progressive and values-led organisation, we are seeking a high-quality Director of People to join our central team. This is a pivotal role, leading our people strategy and shaping an inclusive, high-performing organisation where colleagues thrive and pupils succeed.
About the Role
As Director of People, you will:
- Lead the delivery of the GMET People Strategy, embedding our vision, values, and strategic priorities in all aspects of workforce planning, culture, and development.
- Foster a culture of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose across all schools.
- Drive organisational effectiveness through consistent HR systems, processes, and delivery models.
- Champion equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring equitable and inclusive hiring and development.
- Oversee pay frameworks, talent management, and professional development pathways.
- Lead on employee wellbeing, engagement, and workload management, supporting a healthy work-life balance for all colleagues.
- Advise the Board and Executive Team on workforce trends, organisational design, and culture development.
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, safer recruitment, and employment legislation.
About You
We are looking for an ethical, values-driven leader who:
- Has significant experience in strategic HR leadership, organisational culture, and change management.
- Demonstrates a passion for developing people and creating a great place to work.
- Possesses excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaborative skills.
- Is committed to equity, transparency, and continuous professional development.
- Models our core values of excellence, care, and respect in all interactions.
A postgraduate qualification (Level 7) in Human Resources or a related field is essential-or a commitment to work towards this, supported by the Trust. Chartered CIPD membership is desirable.
Full details about the role and the qualifications, experience, and attributes required can be found in the attached Job Description and Person Specification.
Why Join GMET?
A Trust for Every Child and Every Colleague
At GMET, we believe that great futures are built by great people. Every colleague in our schools experiences the same focus on care, guidance, opportunity, and challenge that we provide for our learners. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and every role, whether teaching or support, is valued.
When you join GMET, you’ll be part of a trust that puts people at the heart of its strategy. You’ll be supported and empowered to grow within an inclusive, ambitious environment where wellbeing and professional development are priorities. Through bespoke support, tailored CPD, and opportunities to collaborate and innovate, you’ll become the very best practitioner and advance your career with us.
What We Offer
- A warm, inclusive, and supportive school culture
- High expectations for all learners and staff
- A strong focus on wellbeing and professional development
- Opportunities to innovate and collaborate across the trust
- A commitment to equity, diversity, and accessibility
- Tailored CPD and coaching
- Trust-wide networks and learning communities
- Leadership development pathways
- Access to wellbeing resources and flexible working options
Employee Benefits
- Comprehensive professional development and clear career pathways
- Health cash plans and generous pension scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Flexible working options
- Blue Light Card and similar discount schemes
- Free parking and more
To Apply
If you have any questions or would like to arrange an informal discussion with the CEO or a visit, please email: recruitment@gmetrust.org.
Shortlisting for the role will take place on Tuesday 6th January with interviews being held on Monday 12th and Tuesday 13th January.
We are committed to safeguarding, child protection and promoting the wellbeing of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All roles are subject to:
- Enhanced DBS checks
- Reference and identity verification and other pre-employment checks.
- Compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Further information about the job
Commitment to safeguarding
Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment.
Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance.
Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant):
childcare disqualification
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
medical
online and social media
prohibition from teaching
right to work
satisfactory references
suitability to work with children
You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
About Greater Manchester Education Trust
- Type
- Multi-academy trust
Head office location
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