At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformational HR initiatives and shape organisational culture during a pivotal change period.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority focused on innovative public service delivery in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive rate, hybrid working options, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of organisational renewal, driving change and promoting inclusivity in the workplace.
- Qualifications: Senior HR leadership experience in public sector, with expertise in organisational development and change management.
- Other info: This role offers a unique opportunity to influence strategic HR practices across multiple departments.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are hiring a transformational Head of Organisational Development and Change to lead a high-impact people and change agenda at a pivotal time of organisational renewal. This is a central role reshaping how HR and OD services are delivered across a complex environment. With a new People Strategy in place, this role will support the evolution of the organisation, leading high-stakes business partner and advisory services.
The Opportunity:
Reporting to the Director of Workforce Change, this role will lead OD, HR Business Partnering, and Advisory services through a period of significant transformation. This role will influence organisational culture, service design, and workforce strategy across both council departments and traded entities.
What You'll Do:
- Lead and evolve the OD, Business Partnering, and Advisory functions to support ambitious change and savings plans
- Drive the redesign of the HR/OD structure and TOM, shaping proposals and leading engagement and consultation
- Be a senior voice on strategic ER issues, complex casework, and employment litigation
- Promote inclusive leadership, diversity, and learning across the organisation
- Support the council’s transformation agenda, ensuring HR enables rather than constrains change
- Strengthen trade union and stakeholder relationships during complex restructures
- Provide direct support to traded services (excluding schools) and contribute to SLA reviews
What We're Looking For:
- Proven senior HR leadership experience in complex public sector settings
- Strong expertise in organisational development, change, workforce planning, and people data/insight
- Experience shaping new HR operating models and implementing restructures
- Skilled communicator with a collaborative, inclusive leadership style
- Commercial and strategic mindset—able to balance organisational risk with innovation
- Committed to equality, diversity, inclusion, and embedding organisational values into people practice
Head of Organisational Development and Change (local authority) employer: Career Wallet
Contact Detail:
Career Wallet Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Organisational Development and Change (local authority)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the public sector, especially those involved in organisational development and change. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to connect with potential colleagues and learn about current trends in HR leadership.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in public sector HR practices, particularly around organisational culture and change management. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led change initiatives in previous roles. Highlight your experience in shaping HR operating models and managing complex restructures to showcase your suitability for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the local authority's current challenges and transformation agenda. Understanding their specific needs will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills can directly contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Organisational Development and Change (local authority)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your senior HR leadership experience, particularly in public sector settings. Emphasise your expertise in organisational development and change management, showcasing specific examples of how you've influenced culture and service design.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Discuss your experience with HR operating models and how you have successfully led transformation initiatives. Be sure to convey your commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Showcase Relevant Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Use metrics to illustrate how you've driven change, improved workforce strategy, or enhanced stakeholder relationships.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to strategic HR issues and complex casework. Be ready to discuss your approach to promoting inclusive leadership and how you would support the council’s transformation agenda. This preparation will help you articulate your vision during interviews.
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Wallet
✨Understand the Organisational Context
Familiarise yourself with the local authority's current challenges and transformation agenda. Research their recent initiatives and how they align with the new People Strategy, as this will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of their specific needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach, particularly in fostering inclusive environments and driving change. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully led teams through complex transformations.
✨Highlight Your Strategic Mindset
Be ready to articulate how you balance organisational risk with innovation. Discuss your experience in shaping HR operating models and how you've implemented restructures that have positively impacted workforce planning and organisational culture.
✨Prepare for Complex Case Discussions
Anticipate questions around strategic employee relations issues and complex casework. Prepare examples that showcase your problem-solving skills and your ability to navigate challenging situations while maintaining strong stakeholder relationships.