Location
National Office, Bristol with flexible and blended working arrangements available.

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week

Salary
£60,293 - £66,375 per annum

About the Role
The Head of Human Resources – Governance and Policy plays a pivotal role in shaping an inclusive, sustainable, and high-performing organisation. This strategic leadership position oversees the Forestry Commission’s people framework, championing excellent HR policy, pensions governance, equality, diversity, inclusion, wellbeing, and the effective governance of all people programmes. Although based within Forestry England, this role operates across the wider Forestry Commission organisation, providing key cross Business Operations and leadership in delivering pan Forestry Commission HR programmes, policies, and people initiatives. Join a passionate team dedicated to growing the nation’s forests, creating amazing places and experiences, and making a positive difference for people and the environment.

Benefits
Forestry England contributes an average of 28.97% towards your pension through the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. You will receive 25 days holiday per year, increasing by one day each year up to 30 days (pro-rated for part-time employees), plus bank holidays. Access to STaR, the employee benefits scheme, offers discounts on everyday shopping, holidays, insurance, gym memberships, and wellbeing apps. Free parking at Forestry England sites and free entry to National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury are included. Forestry England supports lifelong learning and career development through continual professional development, individual learning plans, and sponsored membership of professional bodies.

Experience
Proven experience in strategic HR leadership, particularly in governance, policy development, and people frameworks. Experience working within or alongside public sector organisations is desirable.

About you
You are a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills, able to influence and deliver effective HR programmes across complex organisations. You demonstrate commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are essential, alongside the ability to operate collaboratively across multiple teams and business areas.

Qualifications
Relevant professional HR qualifications and membership of a recognised HR body are desirable. A commitment to continuous professional development and lifelong learning is expected.