Overview

WORKING WITH US: The Harris Federation was founded by Lord Harris of Peckham. Over the past thirty years we have implemented ideas and initiatives that transform opportunities for pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds. Harris academies are recognised as a force for social mobility. We now have over 50 schools educating more than 40,000 young people across London and Essex, employing over 5,000 staff. We value diversity and are committed to a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff. Our work will impact many generations to come, and our staff come from all backgrounds and walks of life, coming together to inspire young minds. We promote an inclusive culture that embraces the valuable and enriching contributions of all of our community. To discover more about our culture, ethos and what it is like to work here, visit the Why Work For Us page.

About this Opportunity

We are seeking a proactive and knowledgeable HR Advisor to join our central HR team. You’ll support a group of academies, providing expert guidance on HR policies, employee relations and workforce initiatives, while contributing to projects that shape the future of education. This is a dynamic generalist role requiring strong communication, analytical skills, and a collaborative mindset. You’ll be part of a pioneering multi-academy trust known for transforming schools and empowering communities. With access to outstanding CPD, a supportive team, and a culture of excellence, this is a fantastic opportunity to grow your HR career in a purpose-driven environment.

Main Areas of Responsibility

• Delivery of a generalist HR advisory service to the Federation and our Academies, providing up-to-date and informed HR guidance on HR policies, processes and systems
• Providing professional advice and support to Federation and Academy leaders in all areas of HR practice and employee relations (grievance, disciplinary, performance management and sickness absence management), escalating complex cases as appropriate to the Head of HR and HR Business Partners
• Supporting the HR Business Partner with organisation change programmes including redundancy, restructuring and TUPE transfers; preparing documents, supporting planning, due diligence completion, etc.
• Participating in the development and delivery of HR policy skills workshops for line managers and academy HR
• Assisting with end-to-end employee lifecycle and payroll processes
• Preparing HR documents and creating and maintaining templates
• Producing management information reports
• Evaluating job descriptions and providing advice and guidance on salary bandings to ensure a consistent and fair approach
• Assisting with the development and implementation of HR policies and procedures

For a full job description, please download the Job Pack.

What We Are Looking For

• Experience providing generalist HR advice on terms & conditions, application of policies and first-line employee relations
• Up-to-date knowledge of employment law and current HR practice
• Qualifications to degree level, or equivalent experience
• At least part qualification to CIPD Level 5 or equivalent by experience with a willingness to study
• Excellent spoken and written communication skills
• Confidence and ability to develop and maintain professional relationships at all levels
• Discretion and diplomacy, with the ability to adhere to confidentiality requirements

For a full job specification, please download the Job Pack.

Applying for This Position

If you would like to discuss the opportunity further, or if you have any questions, please contact us via email to arrange a conversation. Before applying, please download the job pack from our careers website to assist with completing your application. Applications are online before the closing date. When applying, you will have the option to import your CV or use a LinkedIn profile to auto-populate the online application. Please check your junk mail and add us to your safe senders list to ensure future communications are received.

Our Vision & Values

Our vision is to provide the structure and services needed for our schools to excel and to free-up teachers and leaders to focus on delivering outstanding education for all pupils. Our core mission is to close the educational gap between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers. We aim for every child in London to have equal access to high-quality education and the same opportunities to succeed. Our four core values are Excellence, Collaboration, Support, and Innovation, which guide how we work to achieve the best outcomes for young people, communities and colleagues.

Important Information

Safeguarding: The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced DBS check, references, an online search, and where applicable a prohibition from teaching check.

Equal Opportunities: We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students and are committed to creating a fair, equitable and mutually supportive environment.

What We Can Offer You

Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and professional development, with coaching and a wide range of training programmes. You will have access to a variety of benefits and initiatives including:

• Excellent opportunities for continuing professional development and career progression
• Annual performance and loyalty bonus
• Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
• 26 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 27 days after 2 years of service, or equivalent for term-time staff
• Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
• Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
• Discounts on a wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel
• 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
• Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans

For most non-teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we offer flexible working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.