Head of People (12 Month FTC)

The Royal Society of Arts is the home of creativity for the common good. Since 1754 it has championed ingenuity and innovation and turned possibility into progress. From pioneering inventions and design to shaping social change, we are a place for action and connection, where the brilliance of people drives change. And today, this organisation is more vital than ever.

The Opportunity

We're looking for an experienced and values-driven Head of People to lead the People team, shape and deliver a people strategy that strengthens organisational effectiveness, develops leadership capability and fosters an inclusive, high-performing culture. As a trusted adviser and leader, you'll drive an outstanding employee experience, lead a high-quality People service, and help create the conditions for colleagues to thrive and deliver impact.

This role is based at RSA House in London for at least three days per week, with hybrid flexibility for the remaining days.

What you’ll do

• Developing and implementing a people strategy aligned to the RSA's mission and organisational objectives.

• Partnering with senior stakeholders to strengthen organisational effectiveness, leadership capability, and workforce planning.

• Leading on organisational development, culture, engagement, diversity and inclusion initiatives.

• Providing strategic advice and support on complex people matters, change programmes and employee relations issues.

• Ensuring the delivery of effective, compliant and high-quality People services across the employee lifecycle.

• Leading and developing the People team while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and service excellence.

Who you are

• An experienced People leader with a track record of shaping and delivering people strategies that drive organisational performance, culture and engagement.

• A trusted adviser who can influence, coach and constructively challenge senior leaders.

• Significantly knowledgeable in UK employment law and HR best practice, with sound judgement and credibility.

• Experienced in leading organisational development, change and transformation initiatives.

• Equally comfortable thinking strategically and delivering operationally.

• A strong relationship builder with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Passionate about creating inclusive, high-performing workplaces where people can thrive and do their best work.

Your key experience

• Significant senior-level experience of leading a People or HR function.

• Practical experience of leading organisational change and transformation programmes.

• A track record of developing and implementing people strategies that support organisational objectives.

Apply

In order to apply, please click ‘quick apply’ on our recruitment page and submit your CV. You will also be required to answer a series of questions. You do not need to submit a cover letter.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 17 September 2026. However, screening and interviews will be ongoing, so we may close the vacancy early if sufficient exceptional candidates apply. Please get your application in as soon as possible.

Please note that we cannot accept late, incomplete applications, and we can only consider candidates who apply through the online application process.

Inclusion Statement

As a social change organisation, we believe everyone, regardless of visible or invisible difference should feel welcomed and able to contribute to creating a better future. You can read our full inclusion statement on our website.

Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations.

Head of People (12 Month FTC)

London

WC2N 6EZ

Competitive Salary

Contract - Full-time

Posted yesterday

Closing date: 18/09/2026

Job reference: MG1666130LonHOPMF

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Head of People (12 Month FTC)

London

Competitive Salary