At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative HR strategies to drive cultural change and enhance workforce performance.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Harrow, committed to community and organisational resilience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment focused on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR while championing diversity and employee engagement.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with experience in complex organisations and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The London Borough of Harrow is seeking an experienced Strategic HR Manager to join its Resources & Innovation Directorate. This pivotal role offers an exciting opportunity to shape and deliver innovative HR and Organisational Development strategies that drive cultural change, enhance leadership capability, and foster a high-performing workforce.
Reporting to the Head of Human Resources, you will lead on critical workforce priorities, including reducing sickness absence, minimising agency costs, and supporting organisational transformation through restructuring and change programmes. You will champion employee engagement, equality, diversity, and inclusion while ensuring compliance and consistency in all aspects of employee relations.
As a key member of the HR leadership team, you will manage and develop HR professionals, promoting a proactive, customer-focused service that delivers solutions-oriented support across the Council. Your expertise will influence strategic decision-making, build strong partnerships with senior leaders and trade unions, and contribute to Harrow's vision of continuous improvement and organisational resilience.
If you are CIPD-qualified, with proven experience in leading HR and OD initiatives within complex organisations, and possess exceptional stakeholder management and analytical skills, this is an outstanding opportunity to make a lasting impact on Harrow's workforce and community.
The selection process will include a competency-based test and interview - Planned interview date: 15 Jan 2025.
The successful candidate will have:
- CIPD qualification or equivalent professional HR accreditation.
- Proven experience in leading HR and Organisational Development initiatives within a complex organisation.
- Strong knowledge of UK employment law, employee relations, and organisational development practices.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and develop HR teams, fostering high performance and engagement.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to build strong relationships at all levels.
- Experience in delivering large-scale change programmes, including restructures and TUPE transfers.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret workforce data and drive evidence-based decisions.
- Exceptional communication skills, including report writing and presenting complex information clearly.
- Financial awareness and experience in managing budgets.
- A commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and continuous improvement in all aspects of HR delivery.
For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/ Selection Criteria.
Strategic HR Manager in London employer: Harrow Council
Harrow Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering an inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. As a Deafblind & Multi-Sensory Inclusion Advisor, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people while benefiting from comprehensive training and support in a collaborative environment. Located in London, the council offers unique advantages such as access to diverse resources and a commitment to community engagement, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic HR Manager in London
✨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 Harrow 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 Harrow Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic HR Manager in London
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 Harrow 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 Harrow 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 Harrow Council. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Harrow 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 Harrow 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 Harrow 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 Harrow 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 Harrow Council and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
