Kate Smith

• Lead the full HR function across three campuses, shaping strategy and operations in line with legislation and best practice.
• Integral member of the Senior Management Team, aligning HR strategy with school objectives and ethos.
• Drive recruitment and onboarding processes under Safer Recruitment standards, ensuring talent attraction and compliance.
• Manage complex employee relations issues (contracts, absence, grievance, disciplinary, TUPE, redundancy), advising Heads of School on effective resolution.
• Lead organisational change initiatives including restructures, role design, and performance management frameworks.
• Oversee payroll, pensions, benefits, and compliance with statutory requirements (SCR, Workforce Census).
• Champion staff wellbeing strategy in collaboration with Governors, embedding Department for Education guidance.
• Promote professional development, coaching leaders and staff to support career progression and capability.
• Maintain accurate HR systems and records, producing metrics on workforce demographics and turnover.
• Liaise with external advisors and service providers to ensure effective HR support and compliance.
• Work collaboratively with trade unions to resolve complex cases and foster positive working environment.

• Advised Headteachers, Directors, Managers, employees, and Trade Unions on complex employee relations cases, ensuring fair and legally compliant outcomes.
• Supported Senior HR Manager in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures across schools and council services.
• Guided managers on disciplinary, grievance, conduct, restructures, redundancies, and redeployment, resolving conflict with clarity and consistency.
• Delivered proactive, customer-focused HR services aligned with Service Level Agreements, including financial administration of buyback and ad-hoc services.
• Produced HR management information and workforce data to identify trends and inform decision making.
• Countersigned DBS applications, advised on terms and conditions, and ensured compliance with safeguarding requirements.
• Conducted job evaluations, addressing pay and grading issues with transparency.
• Delivered training to managers, Headteachers, and Governors, strengthening HR capability across schools.
• Maintained accurate HR casework systems and provided onsite support when required.
• Partnered with Trade Unions to resolve sensitive employee relations cases, ensuring fair outcomes and maintaining constructive dialogue across schools and council services.
• Built trusted relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, recognised for clear guidance and professional integrity.

• Coached and mentored a team of six, delegating tasks and building capability.
• Led process improvements using LEAN methodology, streamlining payroll operations and enhancing efficiency.
• Managed end-to-end payroll duties including input, audit, reconciliation, and submission to strict deadlines.
• Ensured compliance with HR regulations, liaising with central HR and maintaining accurate employee records.
• Oversaw payroll for starters, leavers, statutory payments, and benefits, resolving discrepancies promptly.
• Administered payslips via Self Serve system and monitored employee data through Resource Link for accuracy.
• Acted as first point of contact for payroll enquiries, escalating complex issues appropriately.
• Stayed current with legislation and tax codes to ensure accurate and compliant payroll delivery.

• Provided clerical and administrative support, including word processing, ICT tasks, and office systems management.

• Handled payroll queries from staff at all levels, including Senior Managers and Headteachers, ensuring timely resolution.

• Prepared and processed employee timesheets, payslips, and payroll input forms using PROIV and internal systems.

• Issued contracts, conducted pre-employment checks, and managed contractual changes in line with employment terms and conditions (STP&C, Green Book, Burgundy Book).

• Supported the centralisation of departmental payroll teams into HR, contributing to the creation of a central hub.

• Delivered training and mentoring to team members, strengthening capability and compliance.

• Ensured accuracy and efficiency in payroll administration, reconciling data and adhering to statutory requirements.

• Supervised retail operations, developing staff schedules and mentoring junior team members to improve performance.
• Ensured compliance with age-restricted sales, maintaining legal and ethical standards.
• Delivered excellent customer service, resolving queries and maintaining a professional, approachable manner.
• Managed cash handling, reconciliations, and high-volume transactions with accuracy and efficiency.
• Oversaw stock control, merchandising, and replenishment to maximise sales and product availability.
• Coordinated deliveries and safeguarded goods through secure handling practices.
• Maintained clean, organised customer areas and workspaces, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.