At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and workforce development for a large, dynamic council.
- Company: Hertfordshire County Council, committed to community and organisational growth.
- Benefits: Influential role with opportunities for career advancement and impactful change.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture during a pivotal transformation period.
- Why this job: Shape the future of local government while guiding a workforce of 9,000.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience and ability to drive organisational change.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
Hertfordshire County Council is seeking an exceptional Director of People to join us at a pivotal point in our journey. We are a large, ambitious and forward-looking authority, driven by a strong sense of purpose and a deep commitment to delivering for our communities. We have built a positive and supportive culture, underpinned by strong workforce foundations and an established People Strategy, alongside a clear ambition to go further.
At the same time, we are entering a period of significant change, with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) now underway. This presents a rare, career-defining opportunity to take on a senior leadership role, guiding our workforce through change while helping to shape the future of local government across Hertfordshire.
As Director of People, you will lead a significant and complex portfolio, supporting a workforce of around 9,000 employees alongside our schools community and Fire & Rescue service. You will be responsible for leading the strategic and operational delivery of HR, workforce strategy, organisational development and payroll, while also driving the people and workforce workstream for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
As a key member of the corporate leadership team, you will act as a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive and Members, playing a visible and credible role and driving organisational performance, culture and continuous improvement. You will strengthen leadership capability and overall organisational performance, while building and sustaining effective relationships with Members, partners and trade unions.
While culture and organisational development remain important, there is a clear priority on delivering strong, resilient HR leadership over the coming years, ensuring the organisation has the solid foundations it needs as it evolves. You will be a credible and thoughtful leader, comfortable operating at Executive level in a complex, politically-led environment.
- A strong track record of leading a wider range of HR functions at scale
- Proven experience overseeing and delivering organisational change and transformation, maintaining pace while sustaining core services
- The ability to translate strategy into practical, high-quality delivery
- Challenge constructively, bringing fresh thinking and sound judgement
If you are ready to take on a role of real scale, influence and impact and to help shape the future of Hertfordshire we would love to hear from you.
Key Dates in Recruitment Timeline
Sunday 19th July – Role Closes.
Week Commencing 27th July – Technical/Preliminary Interviews (Online).
Director of People & Policy in Watford employer: Hertfordshire County Council
Hertfordshire County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth. With competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and a commitment to employee development, this role in Stevenage provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in pensions governance while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
Contact Details:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People & Policy in Watford
✨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!
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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 Hertfordshire County Council!
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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 Hertfordshire County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People & Policy in Watford
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 Hertfordshire County 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 Hertfordshire County 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 Hertfordshire County Council. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hertfordshire County 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 Hertfordshire County 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 Hertfordshire County 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 Hertfordshire County 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 Hertfordshire County Council and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
