Director of People & Organisational Development / Cyfarwyddwr Pobl a Datblygu Sefydliadol in Llantrisant

Director of People & Organisational Development / Cyfarwyddwr Pobl a Datblygu Sefydliadol in Llantrisant

Llantrisant Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
GatenbySanderson

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead cultural transformation and drive workforce development in a vital public service.
  • Company: South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety and wellbeing.
  • Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact and shape an inclusive organisation.
  • Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and creating a supportive workplace.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team transforming lives across South Wales.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and strategic thinking in complex environments.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service serves more than 1.6 million people across ten local authority areas. We protect communities, respond to emergencies, and work every day to reduce risk and improve wellbeing across South Wales. At the heart of that mission are our 1,700 talented people.

We are looking for an exceptional Director of People & Organisational Development to join our Executive Leadership Team and help shape the next chapter of our Service. This is a rare opportunity to lead cultural transformation at scale. Following independent review and national inspection, we are implementing an ambitious programme of change to build an outstanding, inclusive and values-led organisation.

We have a clear vision for the future and are seeking a leader with the credibility, resilience and ambition to help deliver it. You will lead our People & OD function, driving workforce transformation, leadership development, organisational effectiveness and cultural change. Working alongside the Chief Fire Officer and Executive Leadership Team, you will help create a modern people service that enables our workforce to thrive and our communities to receive the very best service.

We welcome applications from outstanding leaders both within and beyond the fire sector. What matters most is your ability to operate strategically, build trust, lead through complexity, and deliver meaningful and lasting change in a highly visible public service environment.

If you are motivated by public service, inspired by transformation, and excited by the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for the people of South Wales, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: Noon, 24 August 2026

South Wales Fire & Rescue Service is committed to equality, diversity, inclusion and creating a workplace where everyone can belong, contribute and succeed.

Director of People & Organisational Development / Cyfarwyddwr Pobl a Datblygu Sefydliadol in Llantrisant employer: GatenbySanderson

GatenbySanderson is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity within the digital services sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer robust growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives. Located at the heart of national strategy initiatives, our team enjoys the unique advantage of influencing impactful public services while working in a supportive environment that prioritises user-centric solutions.

GatenbySanderson

Contact Details:

GatenbySanderson Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of People & Organisational Development / Cyfarwyddwr Pobl a Datblygu Sefydliadol in Llantrisant

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We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Organisational Development / Cyfarwyddwr Pobl a Datblygu Sefydliadol in Llantrisant

Strategic Leadership
Cultural Transformation
Workforce Transformation
Leadership Development
Organisational Effectiveness
Change Management
Trust Building

Some tips for your application 🫡

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How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson

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