Head of People Opportunity

Pure are delighted to be working with Britten Pears Arts to recruit their next Head of People – a pivotal leadership role at the heart of one of the UK’s most distinctive arts organisations. The role is based at Snape Maltings, a beautiful heritage destination with its converted Victorian buildings and home to independent shops, galleries, cafes and a restaurant. 

Britten Pears Arts is committed to being an employer where creativity and people flourish side by side. Just as the organisation supports artists to experiment, grow, and innovate, it is equally dedicated to creating an environment where colleagues can thrive. The Head of People will play a central role in evolving this culture, ensuring the organisation remains an employer of choice within the arts sector and local community.

Reporting directly to the Chief Finance and People Officer (CFPO), the Head of People will lead a small but dedicated team responsible for supporting around 240 employees and workers, alongside seasonal and casual staff. The remit is broad, covering the full employee lifecycle – from recruitment and onboarding, to learning and development, wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, and long-term engagement.

This is both a strategic and operational role, supporting the CFPO in delivering the new People Strategy whilst being responsible for the breadth of operational deliverables. The successful candidate will provide expert guidance to senior leaders, act as a trusted advisor across the organisation, and champion initiatives that drive performance, engagement, and professional growth. They will also ensure that policies, systems, and processes are not only compliant with current legislation but forward-looking and fit for purpose in a fast-changing environment.

The Head of People will also take a leading role in building pathways into employment through apprenticeships, internships, and volunteering opportunities, while embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of people strategy.

This opportunity calls for an exceptional and versatile leader, someone with strong strategic insight, operational expertise, and the ability to inspire trust and collaboration. Above all, it requires a person who can lead by example, shaping a workplace where every individual feels valued and supported to perform at their best.

Explore the full job description here.