At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate People Services in a large NHS organisation, driving improvements and managing teams.
- Company: Join a dynamic NHS organisation committed to shaping inclusive workforce services.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible site presence, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on workforce transformation and culture within the NHS.
- Qualifications: Extensive HR leadership experience and strong project management skills required.
Interim Band 8c | Large NHS Organisation | Flexible Site Presence Required
Daily rate: £300 - £340 Umbrella Inside IR35
Location: East of England
Are you an experienced senior Workforce and Organisational Development leader looking to shape and elevate People Services at scale? This is a high-profile opportunity to lead a broad portfolio across HR systems, employee services, medical workforce, resourcing and programme delivery within a large, complex NHS environment.
We are seeking an innovative, forward-thinking senior People professional with extensive experience operating at strategic level, driving improvement, and delivering modern, efficient and inclusive workforce services.
The Role
As Associate Director of People Services, you will provide visible leadership across a wide People Services function and work closely with senior stakeholders to deliver the organisation's People and Culture ambitions. You will oversee teams responsible for HR Business Partnering, Medical Workforce, Employee Services, Resourcing and Talent Acquisition, ensuring high-quality service delivery, strong governance and continuous improvement. The role also includes deputising for senior People leadership and contributing to organisational strategy, culture transformation, and the delivery of large-scale change.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, develop and performance-manage multiple People Services teams
- Drive improvements across HR systems, processes, governance and service delivery
- Oversee complex programmes of work, including technology, systems and change initiatives
- Strengthen People Services' alignment with organisational strategy and national People Plans
- Build strong internal and external partnerships and influence senior stakeholders
- Lead contract management, risk management and workforce assurance activity
- Promote an inclusive, innovative and compassionate culture across the organisation
Essential Experience:
- Extensive leadership experience in HR/People Services within a complex organisation within the NHS
- Strong programme and project management expertise (Prince2, MSP or equivalent)
- Deep understanding of HR systems, payroll, e-rostering, temporary staffing, workforce planning and data governance
- A track record of delivering large change programmes and service transformation
- Ability to communicate complex and sensitive information clearly and impactfully
- Strong stakeholder management, negotiation and influencing skills at executive level
A collaborative, motivating leadership style with the ability to drive performance.
Associate Director - People Services in Cambridge employer: Cedar
As a leading NHS organisation, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. With a strong focus on professional development and innovative practices, we offer extensive growth opportunities for our team members while ensuring a supportive environment that values compassion and excellence in service delivery. Join us in shaping the future of People Services in a dynamic and impactful setting in the East of England.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - People Services in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the NHS or related fields. Attend industry events and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's culture and values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their People Services ambitions. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and scenarios!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss how you've driven performance and led teams in previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to manage change and improve service delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - People Services in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Associate Director - People Services. Highlight your experience in HR and organisational development, focusing on how you've driven improvements and led teams in complex environments like the NHS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your leadership style and how you've successfully managed change programmes in the past.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to build strong relationships with senior stakeholders. We want to see how you've influenced decision-making and driven alignment with organisational strategies in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Associate Director role. Brush up on HR systems, workforce planning, and change management strategies. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your collaborative and motivating leadership style. Think about times when you’ve driven performance or led teams through change. This will help demonstrate your fit for a senior role in People Services.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to discuss how you’ve built strong partnerships in previous roles. Share specific instances where you influenced senior stakeholders or managed complex programmes. This will showcase your ability to navigate the NHS environment effectively.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Innovation
Since the role focuses on promoting an inclusive culture, think about how you’ve fostered diversity and innovation in your past positions. Prepare to share your vision for creating a compassionate workplace that aligns with the organisation's People and Culture ambitions.
