About this role
Job summary
As the NHS is changing, people services must evolve with it. We have already begun our transformation journey, reshaping how HR supports our people and services. We are now seeking an exceptional HR leader to build on this momentum and lead the next phase of change, shaping a modern, innovative and high-performing HR service that anticipates future workforce challenges and thrives within an evolving health and care landscape.
This role requires someone who combines deep expertise in employment law and workforce practice with the creativity and forward-thinking mindset needed to develop new approaches, embrace technology and continuously improve how HR services are delivered.
Success in this role will be built on your ability to influence, build credibility and develop strong partnerships. You will work closely with senior leaders, staff-side representatives and partners across the Cornwall system, bringing outstanding relationship-building, negotiation and communication skills to support organisational priorities, navigate complex workforce challenges and deliver positive outcomes for colleagues and services alike.
You will also play a key role in promoting organisational health, inclusion, wellbeing and a restorative just culture, recognising the connection between workforce experience, community wellbeing and quality of care.
Main duties of the job
As Head of Human Resources, you will lead a team of HR professionals providing expert support across employee relations, organisational change, workforce transformation, performance management, sickness absence and complex casework.
You will ensure the service remains responsive, customer-focused and solutions-driven, while providing trusted advice and strategic workforce leadership to Directors, senior leaders and managers across the Trust.
If you are an authentic and influential leader who thrives on innovation, embraces change and is passionate about creating modern people services fit for the future, we would welcome your application.
Interview: 19 November 2026, location to be confirmed.
About us
We're an NHS community and mental health provider Trust based in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We deliver community and hospital-based care to improve people's physical and mental health. We also provide specialist support to people with dementia or a learning disability.
We are a people organisation and people matter to us. As part of the team, you'll help support the health and wellbeing of the people who live and visit this beautiful part of the UK.
Over 5,000 people make up the Trust. This includes doctors, nurses, therapists, plus admin and support staff.
We work in people's homes, in community clinics and bases. Some staff work from one of our 10 community hospitals. Our aspiration is to have great people, provide great care, be a great place to work and a great partner.
Approximately 568,000 people live here. A third of people who live in Cornwall are supported by acute hospital services in Devon. As a result, we also work closely with our partners in Devon. In the summer, and during other holidays lots of people choose to visit the area. This increase the numbers of people who use out services.
Job description
Job responsibilities
To view a detailed job description and person specification including the main responsibilities of this role please see supporting documents.
Person Specification
Education and Qualifications
Essential
- Educated to master's level or equivalent knowledge gained through experience
- Evidence of recent and ongoing continued professional development
- Minimum status of Chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Personal Development
- Postgraduate-level specialist HR knowledge acquired through postgraduate study or equivalent advanced training and substantial relevant experience
- Accredited qualification in mediation
Experience
Essential
- Experience of working as a strategic business partner
- Experience of developing and implementing organisational wide policies
- Significant experience of working in change management
- Experience of leading workforce transformation
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Employer details
Employer name
Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Carew House, Bodmin
Bodmin
PL31 2QN
United Kingdom
Employer's website
https://www.cornwallft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)