The Fostering Network
Head of HR

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Head of HR
We are seeking an experienced Head of HR to lead the people function of a national charity, strengthening its culture and helping colleagues thrive.
Position: Head of HR
Salary: £48,659 to £53,836 per annum, plus London weighting if eligible. New starters are appointed at the bottom of the salary band.
Location: Hybrid, with attendance at the London office required twice a week
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: Wednesday 28th October 11.59pm
Interview date: Thursday 5th November
About the role
This is an opportunity to shape and lead the HR function within a charity of approximately 100 to 120 employees. Reporting to the Director of Finance and Resources, you will work closely with senior leaders and people managers to develop effective HR strategies, strengthen everyday practice and build an inclusive, supportive workplace.
Combining strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, your key responsibilities will include:
- Improving HR systems, processes and reporting to support efficient, compliant working.
- Coaching managers and providing expert guidance on employee relations, performance, attendance and conduct.
- Reviewing and developing HR policies that reflect employment law, organisational values and best practice.
- Overseeing inclusive recruitment, safer recruitment checks and effective induction.
- Leading employee engagement and retention initiatives, using staff feedback to inform improvements.
- Managing the HR budget, supplier relationships and an HR Administration Apprentice.
- Supporting organisational change, annual pay reviews and performance development.
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About you
You will be a confident, approachable HR professional who can build trusted relationships, influence decisions and move comfortably between strategic planning and operational delivery.
You will bring:
- Chartered Membership of the CIPD and a minimum Level 5 qualification.
- Extensive experience as an HR Manager or Head of HR, including line management.
- Significant employee relations experience, including productive relationships with employee and trade union representatives.
- Sound knowledge and practical application of employment law across the UK.
- Experience of improving HR systems and producing insightful management reports.
- A track record of delivering HR strategies, policies and organisational or cultural change.
- Strong communication, organisational and analytical skills, alongside a commitment to confidentiality, equality, diversity and inclusion.


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Experience within a grant-funded organisation, managing apprentices or leading projects would be welcome. Care experience or lived experience of foster care is also desirable.
About the organisation
This national charity works within the fostering sector. Its people are central to delivering its mission, and it is committed to creating a workplace where colleagues feel valued, supported and motivated.
The organisation takes a relationship-based approach and is seeking someone who shares its commitment to inclusion and continuous improvement.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo a DBS check.
Benefits include:
- 38 days leave (including bank holidays)
- A range of family friendly and fostering friendly leave options
- Flexible and hybrid working
- Enhanced maternity and adoption pay
- Enhanced sick pay
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Helpline
- Pension and life assurance
- Contribution to eye tests and lenses
- Season ticket loans
- Reimbursement of professional fees
Other roles you may have experience of could include Head of Human Resources, HR Manager, Senior HR Manager, Head of People, People and Culture Manager, HR Business Partner or HR Lead.
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