At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead organisational design initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in the Ministry of Defence.
- Company: Join the UK's central government department focused on national security.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: SC Clearance required; inclusive hiring practices for candidates with disabilities and veterans.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public service delivery while navigating complex challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in organisational design and change management in large organisations.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
Hybrid working (2–3 days per week on site in Bristol, Abbey Wood, and as required, with remaining WFH). The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is the UK’s central government department responsible for protecting the country’s security and independence.
About the role
The DNE is focused on delivering improved outcomes while contributing to wider Defence measures to address resource challenges. This includes the formation of the Submarine Delivery Group (SDG) from 1 April 2026, and the establishment of a minimum viable organisation design solution for SDG. The Portfolio Optimisation Lead will be responsible for driving the coordination needed to deliver efficiencies and implement consistency across the DNE.
Key Responsibilities and Qualifications
- Lead and coordinate the People Workstream within the Submarine Delivery Group transformation programme, ensuring that all organisational design (OD) activities comply with government functional standards and align with the department’s overarching strategic business objectives.
- Provide expert strategic challenge and counsel as an HR Business Partner to senior leadership teams (SCS level), influencing high‑level decisions on operating models, structural shifts, and cultural interventions to drive organisational effectiveness.
- Navigate a complex political and governance landscape of an MoD Area, brokering solutions across organisational boundaries and ensuring that people‑related risks are identified and mitigated in line with the Civil Service Management Code.
- Design and implement evidence‑based organisational structures and workforce plans, using data and behavioural insights to ensure the business is “fit for purpose” and capable of delivering crucial public services.
- Manage stakeholder relationships, including consultation with Trade Unions and staff networks, to foster an inclusive environment and maintain employee engagement during periods of significant structural transition.
- Apply robust Project and Programme Management (PPM) methodologies to track workstream milestones, manage dependencies, and ensure the timely delivery of people‑focused transformation outcomes.
- Develop comprehensive workforce transition strategies, including competency mapping and the design of recruitment campaigns using the Success Profile Framework, to ensure a merit‑based and fair migration to new operating models.
- Design an evaluation of the efficiency, effectiveness and agility of new structures post‑implementation, ensuring that changes remain resilient and aligned with long‑term Defence Nuclear Enterprise and Submarine Delivery Group priorities.
- Proven track record of leading and delivering large‑scale business change programmes in complex, matrixed organisations.
- Significant experience in organisational design (OD), restructuring, and workforce transformation.
- Strong blend of project/programme delivery expertise alongside a credible HR/people strategy background.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement change management strategies that drive organisational effectiveness and adoption.
- Experience operating within large, complex environments (e.g. public sector or private sector organisations with 5,000+ employees).
- Established leadership capability, with experience leading multi‑disciplinary teams and delivering outcomes at pace in high‑pressure environments.
SC Clearance is an essential requirement for this role; candidates must be willing and eligible to undergo checks, and preference may be given to those who hold active security clearance. Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not overseas.
Disability Confident
As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, the MOD guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates with a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we interview the best candidates from within that group. The MOD guarantees to interview veterans or spouses / partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex‑military candidates / military spouses or partners who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.
Organisational Design Lead in Bristol employer: Great British Energy Group
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the UK's national security while working in a dynamic and inclusive environment. With a strong commitment to employee development, the MOD provides robust training and growth opportunities, ensuring that staff can thrive in their careers. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, enabling employees to balance their professional and personal lives effectively, all while being part of a mission-driven organisation that values diversity and supports its workforce through significant transitions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Organisational Design Lead in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Ministry of Defence. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Organisational Design Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the MOD's current projects and challenges. Show us you understand their goals and how your skills can help them achieve success in their transformation programme.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you note. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Organisational Design Lead in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Organisational Design Lead role. Highlight your experience in organisational design and transformation, and show how it aligns with the MOD's objectives. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead large-scale change programmes. Use metrics where possible to quantify your impact. This helps us understand the tangible benefits you can bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure your key skills and experiences are easy to spot. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex topics like organisational design.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all your details correctly and gives you the best chance of being considered for the role. We’re excited to see what you bring to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Great British Energy Group
✨Know Your Organisational Design Inside Out
Make sure you understand the principles of organisational design and how they apply to the Ministry of Defence. Brush up on the latest trends and best practices in OD, especially in complex environments like the public sector.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Think about how you would manage relationships with various stakeholders, including Trade Unions and senior leadership teams. Be ready to discuss your strategies for fostering inclusivity and maintaining engagement during transitions.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Skills
Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully led large-scale change programmes. Highlight your experience with project management methodologies and how you've driven organisational effectiveness in previous roles.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the governance structures within the MOD and how they impact decision-making. Be ready to discuss how you would navigate these complexities and broker solutions across organisational boundaries.
