Director, HR Strategic Programs

As the Lead for Strategic HR Programs, you will be responsible for orchestrating the build and implementation of complex and strategic HR initiatives on a global scale. Your primary focus will be on designing solutions and building relationships to successfully implement modern HR initiatives, process optimization, and driving change to enhance the delivery of Pearson’s talent supply chain. You will be proactive and innovative in keeping the organization competitive in its HR practices and strategies by leveraging research, external best practices, and your professional network.

This role requires a combination of strategic thinking and foresight, research and analysis, strong project management and change management skills, and the ability to build impactful partnerships with cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders.

What you will do:

• Orchestrate the People & Culture transformation roadmap, aligning HR practices with Pearson’s strategy, balancing immediate needs with long-term ambitions through new products, programs, services, and process improvements.
• Manage the delivery of HR transformation projects, leading teams to ensure they deliver on the business case and adapt as needed to align with the sponsor’s objectives and expectations.
• Support change & adoption, engaging directly with business leaders, gathering feedback to refine HR initiatives and ensure alignment with business needs.
• Lead HR’s Rhythm of Business activities, ensuring resources, tools, and support are in place for effective planning and execution.
• Oversee relationships with strategic consultants, ensuring high-quality, value-driven services and the delivery of defined SOWs.
• Continuously stay informed of the latest trends and developments in HR.
• Leverage data & insights, using research and analytics to inform decision-making and optimize HR strategies.
• Write and present strategies to senior leaders and the board on a range of diverse topics, aiming to bring clarity and build alignment.

What you are known for:

• Proven track record of leading and delivering successful transformation projects, from initiation to closure, managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including senior executives, leaders, managers, employees, and project sponsors, and communicate project objectives, status, risks, issues, and solutions effectively.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong knowledge and/or interest in a broad range of HR domains and the ability to learn quickly.
• Willingness to travel as required by the project.

Who We Are Attracting:

• Seasoned Professional: Demonstrated success in leading large-scale, global projects from vision to operational outcomes.
• Leadership at All Levels: Proven ability to guide, influence, and collaborate with teams across all levels of the organization.
• Executive Presence: Capable of engaging senior stakeholders effectively, maintaining a balance of professionalism and approachability.
• Strong Communication Skills: Exceptional presentation and written communication skills, essential for articulating complex ideas and influencing outcomes.
• Remote Flexibility: This role is fully remote, suitable for candidates based in the US who can work Eastern Standard Time (EST) hours.