Head of Human Resources

Are you passionate about shaping an inclusive, engaging, and high-performing workplace? Do you thrive in an international environment where your strategic vision can drive change, while still enjoying hands-on involvement with an amazing team? If so, The British School of Amsterdam (BSA) is looking for an inspiring Head of Human Resources to lead our HR function and help us continue building an engaging employee experience.

What you will do

As the Head of HR, you’ll be at the forefront of continuing to enhance the employee experience and culture at The BSA. You’ll create and execute an HR strategy that champions engagement, innovation, and inclusiveness, while ensuring operational excellence. This is your chance to bring both your strategic insight and operational expertise to an environment where you’ll see the tangible impact of your work.

Reporting directly to the Principal, and leading a small and talented HR team, you’ll partner with the Management and Supervisory Boards, and our Operational Leadership Team (OLT) to cultivate a workplace where people feel valued, recognised, and motivated.

• HR Strategy: Develop and implement an HR strategy aligned with the school’s vision, making The BSA a standout employer where talented people are enabled to do their best work.
• Shape Culture: Lead the creation of a workplace culture that thrives on inclusion, psychological safety, and a strong sense of community.
• Engage & Empower: Design initiatives that prioritise employee well-being, engagement, and recognition, ensuring that everyone feels empowered to contribute and grow.
• Lead Change: Drive HR transformation by streamlining processes, introducing innovative practices, and leading cultural change initiatives.
• Support Leadership: Advise the leadership team on best practices in employee engagement, well-being, and compensation, staying ahead of trends and developments in HR.
• Foster Growth: Implement performance and development programmes that offer employees regular feedback, target-setting, and opportunities for growth.
• Ensure a safe workplace: Ensure all HR policies reflect a commitment to a supportive and inclusive environment, including robust anti-harassment, mental health, and well-being policies.
• Collaborate: Build strong relationships across the school and with external partners, ensuring a cohesive and supportive work environment for all.

About You

You’re an experienced HR Manager, who believes in the power of a positive work culture and the impact it can have on organisational success. You balance strategic vision with hands-on execution and are excited by the chance to be part of a dynamic and growing international school.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in HR, Business, Psychology, or a related field
• Fluent in both English and Dutch
• 5+ years of HR leadership experience
• Deep knowledge of Dutch employment law, including Wet verbetering Poortwachter (WvP)
• A passion for building collaborative relationships, including experience with Works Councils
• Strong communication, decision-making, and data analysis skills
• Experience managing budgets and resources effectively
• Comfortable working at both strategic and operational levels
• Expertise and comfort working with HR technology tools
• Experience of working within an international work environment
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and safeguarding within the school community

Applications Process

Ready to make an impact? If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can shape a fantastic employee experience and be part of a forward-thinking team, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your CV/Resume and a cover letter (in English), addressed to the Principal, Mrs Ruth Sanderson. The closing date for applications is Monday, 11 November 2024.

About the British School of Amsterdam

We are a leading, not-for-profit international school, providing world-class teaching and learning for children from 3 to 18 years old. We offer the best in British education to our 1,100 students, and a welcoming and inclusive environment for over 230 international staff employed at the school. We value collaboration and well-being; where every individual feels supported to do their best work, and where ideas are encouraged, innovation is welcomed, and everyone feels part of something special. Our team is committed to professional development, and you’ll be part of a school community that values every voice and celebrates achievements.

Safeguarding

The British School of Amsterdam is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The offer of the role will be made subject to receipt of satisfactory references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification checks and other safeguarding checks including background checks overseas (where appropriate).

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)

The British School of Amsterdam is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce, and a staff body which reflects and supports the diversity of our pupils and wider society, leading to cognitive diversity which promotes excellence in all areas.