Director of Human Resources

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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