Head of People (Maternity Cover)
Location: Huntingdon (with travel across the county)
Salary: £59,000 – £69,000
Contract: Fixed Term (Maternity Cover)
We’re partnering with a highly respected public sector organisation who are looking for an experienced Head of People from a Public Sector background to join on a maternity cover basis, ensuring stability and leadership for an established HR team.
This role offers a unique opportunity to join a values-driven organisation where culture and employee wellbeing are placed front and centre. You’ll work closely with supportive Senior Leadership Team, playing a key role in maintaining high standards across people management, governance, and compliance - all while contributing to the wider community impact this organisation delivers daily.
Directly managing 1 manager with wider accountability for 5 others it’s imperative that you have previous line management experience.
The Role
* Provide leadership and stability to an established HR team during a period of maternity cover.
* Act as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, attending and contributing to strategic discussions.
* Ensure the organisation remains legally compliant and aligned with best practice in people management.
* Deliver guidance and support to HR Business Partners and Assistants across a headcount of c.650 staff.
* Act as custodian of existing strategies and plans – with a focus on maintaining progress rather than implementing large-scale change.
* Support a positive culture of inclusion, wellbeing, and engagement, working closely with unions and external authorities.
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience at Head of People / Senior HR Leadership level (not a step-up opportunity).
* Background within the public sector, NHS, local government, not-for-profit, or regulated industries.
* Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and governance.
* Experience working within a unionised environment.
* Poses the ability to provide calm, dependable leadership.
* Comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels, ensuring HR delivery remains consistent and robust.
This role will offer a salary of £59,000 – £69,000 (DOE) along with hybrid working – c.3 days a week in the office / onsite, with travel across the county. It’s important to know this is a caretaker role – offering stability, guidance, and leadership to an already high-functioning team. The organisation is well respected, with a collaborative and supportive Senior Leadership Team, and invests heavily in its people and culture.
If you have a Public Sector background and are looking for a rewarding contract, where you can immediately add value and support both employees and the wider community, this is an exceptional opportunity. So please do reach out!