At a Glance
- Tasks: Build relationships between local businesses and disadvantaged residents to create job opportunities.
- Company: Join Hackney Council, a dynamic and progressive local authority in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive work culture, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community by driving inclusive economic growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in relationship building and understanding barriers faced by disabled job seekers.
The predicted salary is between 52269 - 54360 £ per year.
Salary - Grade GBP £52,269 to £54,360
Contract Type: Fixed Term / Secondment
Contract Length: 9-12 months
Contracted Hours: Full Time - 36 hours per week
DBS Required: No
Department: Climate, Homes and Economy
Service: Inclusive Economy, Corporate Policy & New Homes
Closing date: 24/08/2026
This role is for Maternity Cover.
Hackney is one of Britain’s most exciting and fastest changing boroughs. Hackney Council has changed the reputation, not just of the Council, but of Hackney itself. The challenges over the last two years have intensified the need for action, and we are determined to rebuild Hackney for and with our diverse communities.
Are you a proactive relationship builder with a passion for driving inclusive economic growth? The London Borough of Hackney is seeking a Senior Employer Engagement Officer to bridge the gap between local businesses and residents facing severe labour market disadvantages. You will leverage the Council’s strong reputation, planning powers, procurement instruments, and growth and skills levy to create employer led pathways into sustainable jobs.
You will be instrumental in reshaping how local, regional, and growth-sector employers approach recruitment, ensuring that disabled residents and disadvantaged groups have fair, ring fenced access to Hackney’s booming economy.
The successful applicant will have a passion and strong understanding of the barriers faced by disabled job seekers or those with long-term health conditions, alongside the ability to advise employers on reasonable adjustments and accessible hiring practices. The successful applicant will work with colleagues across the council and external stakeholders, to drive the delivery of employment and skills-related objectives.
The post-holder will evaluate council procurement tenders and co-design and monitor Employment and Skills Plans to ensure targets are met. The successful applicant will be self-motivated, organised with the ability to develop and maintain relationships with a wide range of people. A positive attitude is essential, as is a willingness to work autonomously, use creative mechanisms to overcome challenges, take risks and be prepared to fail.
Hackney is one of the most dynamic and progressive local authorities in the UK. We are a resilient, vibrant, and creative borough in the heart of London, with strong, diverse communities and a powerful set of shared values. As a Council, our most outstanding asset is our staff, who are highly dedicated to serving our residents and committed to our goals as an organisation.
We operate a fair and open anonymous selection process. Therefore, we do not accept supporting statements or CVs.
Closing date for applications: 24 August 2026 (22:59)
Interview and assessment date: W/C 14 September 2026
We are also working towards our vision, which is to be a place for everyone; where residents and staff can be proud. In order to achieve this, we are seeking individuals who embody our PROUD values:
- Purpose and Respect, where we foster belonging through active inclusion, kindness, and open dialogue;
- Ownership, where we champion proactive collaboration and accountability for our shared success;
- Unity and Diversity, where we work as one Council to break down silos and champion anti-racist behaviour.
Hackney Council works to eradicate discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy and maternity, age and marital status. We also recognise that people can be disadvantaged by their social and economic circumstances, so we will also work to eliminate discrimination and disadvantage caused by social class.
We also welcome those interested in flexible working. We particularly welcome applications from disabled people, as this group is currently under represented in our workforce.
The Council has a dedicated employment support service (Hackney Works), which offers Hackney residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you are thinking about applying for a job, please contact the Hackney Works team to find out what support is available: hackneyworks@hackney.gov.uk
Senior Employer Engagement Officer employer: Hackney Borough Council
Hackney Council is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises the development of future leaders in local government. As a Management Trainee apprentice, you will benefit from a structured programme that combines hands-on experience across various departments with formal training, all while being part of a progressive council dedicated to equity and community engagement. With competitive salaries, comprehensive support, and a commitment to employee growth, Hackney Council stands out as a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Employer Engagement Officer
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Hackney Borough Council!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Hackney Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Employer Engagement Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Hackney Borough Council. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Hackney Borough Council and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Hackney Borough Council. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hackney Borough Council's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hackney Borough Council
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Hackney Borough Council.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Hackney Borough Council will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Hackney Borough Council and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
