Director of People & Culture

_{12th May, 2026}

Emmanuel Anglican College is a thriving, values-driven school community located in the beautiful Northern Rivers region. With approximately 950 students (including an Early Learning Centre) and a dedicated team of 170+ staff, the College is entering an exciting phase of growth.

We are excited to be recruiting a newly created Director of People & Culture, a pivotal executive leadership role that will shape the future of the College’s people strategy, culture, and capability.

The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Principal and working as part of a collaborative Executive Leadership Team, this role will lead the development and delivery of a contemporary, people-first HR function.

You will play a key role in building a high-performing, engaged workforce that supports exceptional educational outcomes for students.

Key Responsibilities:
This is a broad and strategic role with both operational and project-based responsibilities, including:

• Leading and implementing the College’s Professional Learning and Growth Framework
• Providing expert advice on employee relations, including complex matters, grievances, investigations, and mediations
• Overseeing end-to-end recruitment, onboarding, and pre-employment checks
• Managing performance, probation, and 360-degree review processes
• Ensuring compliance across HR practices, including accreditation requirements for teaching staff
• Driving initiatives across culture, engagement, and wellbeing
• Supporting a safe and supportive workplace, including a strong focus on WHS and psychosocial safety
• Leading HR projects, including the research and implementation of an HRIS and exploring opportunities to leverage AI for process improvement
• Managing employment contracts, variations, and organisational compliance

About You
You are a highly relational and strategic HR leader who thrives in a purpose-driven environment. You will bring:

• Proven experience in a senior HR or People & Culture leadership role
• Demonstrated experience leading and delivering HR strategic projects and initiatives
• Experience managing complex workplace matters with professionalism and care
• A passion for building positive, inclusive workplace cultures
• The ability to operate both strategically and hands-on
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• A genuine commitment to supporting employees and community

Experience within education or a values-based organisation will be highly regarded.

Why Join Emmanuel Anglican College?

• Join a progressive and growing school community
• Be part of a collaborative and values-led executive team
• Shape a newly created role with real impact
• Access generous staff benefits, including subsidised school fees
• Work in the stunning Ballina/Northern Rivers region

Additional Requirements

• Valid Working With Children Check (WWCC)
• Ability to work full-time, on-site in Ballina

For more information and a confidential discussion, please contact Corrie Buchanan from The Shift People on 0409001174.

Applications close 30th May at 5:00 pm