Executive Director People and Culture

Description

mhs homes is changing, and we are doing so with intent. We are on an evolution journey, one that brings together transformation across our people, our processes and our culture. As we have grown in scale, complexity and ambition, we are now ready to take the next step in how we think about our organisation and the role people play within it. That is why we are creating the role of Executive Director of People & Culture, a defining leadership position at the centre of shaping what comes next for mhs homes.

Our mission is clear: to solve the housing crisis in North Kent. It is a serious challenge, one that demands not only strong homes and services, but an organisation that is high-performing, values-driven and deeply connected to its communities. Many of our colleagues live in the areas we serve, and that connection shapes both our culture and our sense of responsibility.

This role is about shaping what comes next.

You will lead the development of a modern, insight-led People & Culture function that is fully aligned to organisational strategy and long-term sustainability. Building on strong foundations, this role will help evolve a strategic, data-informed HR function that drives workforce, culture and organisational effectiveness. You will play a central role in defining and embedding culture, strengthening leadership capability, and ensuring that colleague experience translates into better outcomes for our customers. You will also operate at the heart of the organisation’s governance. As a key member of the Executive Team, you will act as a trusted adviser to the Chief Executive and Board, bringing clarity, challenge and assurance on all people-related matters. This includes navigating complexity, managing risk and ensuring that the organisation continues to operate with the highest standards of safety, accountability and integrity.

We are looking for a leader who combines credibility with authenticity. You will have operated successfully at executive level, with a track record of shaping culture, leading organisational change and building high-performing, inclusive environments. You will be able to translate strategic intent into tangible outcomes, using insight and evidence to drive decisions and measure impact. Equally important is how you lead. You will be values-led, visible and collaborative, able to influence at Board level while staying connected to colleagues across the organisation. You will bring the confidence to challenge, the judgement to navigate ambiguity, and the commitment to build something that will stand the test of time.

You may come from housing, but we are equally open to those from other sectors. What matters is your mindset. You will need to recognise the significance of social housing, not simply as a service, but as a sector with profound social impact and responsibility. You will understand that governance and safety are paramount, and be motivated by the opportunity to apply your experience in a purpose-led, regulated environment.

This is a role for someone who wants to build, shape and lead, an opportunity to create a lasting legacy by placing people and culture exactly where they belong: at the heart of organisational success.

If this ambition resonates, please click the link to learn more about mhs homes. For a confidential conversation, please contact:

Sandra Jones on sandra.jones@gatenbysanderson.com

Rosie Gunn rosie.gunn@gatenbysanderson.com

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