Downe House is one of the UK’s leading boarding and day schools for girls aged 11 to 18. Established in 1907, Downe House is passionate about creating a strong learning environment and community for their girls, where every individual matters.
The Downe House DNA is the key to what makes a Downe House girl. These characteristics are instilled into every girl – Collaboration, Resilience, Creativity, Aspiration, Compassion, Communication and being Outward Looking. Beyond these core values, there is no ‘typical Downe House girl’ as every student is seen for their individual value and talent throughout their school life.
Downe House now look to appoint a senior HR professional to develop, lead and implement the School’s HR strategy ensuring it aligns with the values and strategic vision of the School. Reporting to the Headmistress, The HR Director will be an integral part of the SLT and wider school community. Amongst a broad range of responsibilities, the incoming HR Director will develop and lead the School’s HR strategy, oversee and drive a strong equity, diversity and inclusion strategy and lead the implementation of the new HR systems.
The successful candidate will be primarily site-based, and a motivated and experienced HR generalist, who will bring the expertise required to be a valued member of the SLT, lead the HR strategy for Downe House and who will build strong relationships with the staff body of about 450. The incoming HR Director will need to have a flexible approach, be empathetic, resilient, digitally savvy and have the ability to challenge, engage and influence decision making.
Downe House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including social media checks, references from checks with past employers, and checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service. Details of all checks are to be found in our Recruitment, Selection & Disclosures Procedure, which is available on request.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to Downe House on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference FKBVA. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours).
