At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic HR initiatives and shape workforce strategies for Reading Borough Council.
- Company: Join a dynamic local authority committed to community service and organisational transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment that values diversity and encourages innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant community while leading a high-performing HR team.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience and expertise in strategic workforce issues required.
The predicted salary is between 72998 - 90526 £ per year.
Shape the workforce of one of the South East’s most ambitious local authorities.
Location: Reading Civic Offices, Reading
Working Pattern: Full-time with hybrid working arrangements
Reading is one of the UK’s most successful and dynamic urban areas, home to a thriving economy, diverse communities and ambitious plans for the future. At Reading Borough Council, we’re committed to delivering high‑quality services for our residents while continuing to modernise, transform and improve how we work. We’re looking for an accomplished HR leader to join our senior HR leadership team and help shape the future of our organisation. This is a pivotal role, providing strategic direction and professional leadership across our Strategic HR Business Partnering and HR Advisory services. Working closely with the Director of HR & OD, senior leaders and elected Members, you will influence workforce strategy, organisational transformation and people‑related decision making across the Council. As a key professional authority, you will ensure the organisation receives high‑quality, commercially aware and legally robust people advice that supports both organisational performance and positive outcomes for our communities.
About The Role
Reporting to the Director of HR & OD, this is a senior leadership position with responsibility for leading our Strategic HR Business Partnering and HR Advisory functions. You will play a critical role in shaping organisational effectiveness, workforce sustainability and leadership capability across the Council, helping to ensure our workforce is equipped to meet current and future challenges.
You Will
- Lead our Strategic HR Business Partnering and HR Advisory services, setting direction and driving professional excellence
- Act as a trusted adviser to senior leaders and elected Members on complex strategic workforce matters
- Shape and deliver workforce strategies that support organisational priorities, transformation programmes and financial sustainability
- Provide strategic oversight and assurance for organisational change, restructures and workforce‑related decision making
- Lead on high‑profile and high‑risk employee relations matters
- Build effective relationships with recognised trade unions and key stakeholders
- Develop, coach and inspire HR colleagues, building capability across the function
- Deputise for the Director of HR & OD when required
About You
You will be an experienced and credible HR leader with the professional confidence to operate at senior leadership level within a large, complex organisation.
You Will Bring
- Significant experience advising senior leaders, boards, executives or elected Members on strategic workforce issues
- A strong track record of delivering organisational design, workforce planning and complex transformation programmes
- Extensive knowledge of employment law, governance, employee relations and organisational risk
- Experience working within local government or another complex and highly regulated environment
- The ability to influence, challenge and build credibility at all levels
- Proven leadership experience, developing teams and delivering high‑quality outcomes through others
Most importantly, you’ll be someone who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery, builds strong relationships and thrives in a complex and evolving environment.
Why Reading?
This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact. You’ll join an ambitious council serving one of the most vibrant and diverse communities in the UK, leading a high‑performing team at a time of significant organisational transformation and improvement. You’ll work alongside talented colleagues, influence major strategic decisions and help shape the future workforce of an organisation that is committed to delivering excellent services for residents.
Our values
Everything We Do Is Guided By Our Shared Values
- Work Together as One Team - Champion collaboration to deliver the best outcomes for Reading.
- Drive Efficiency - Use resources effectively and maximise our impact.
- Be Ambitious - Strive for excellence and support others to achieve their potential.
- Make a Difference to Reading - Put residents first and embrace positive change.
Our offer
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where innovation, collaboration and professional development are encouraged.
In Return, You’ll Benefit From
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
- 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years’ continuous local government service
- The option to purchase additional annual leave
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Life assurance of three times annual salary (for LGPS members)
- Modern offices in the heart of Reading town centre
- Outstanding on‑site day nursery
- Season Ticket Loan scheme
- Electric and low‑emission vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- A range of learning and development opportunities
Inclusion and diversity
We believe our workforce should reflect the communities we serve and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Reading Borough Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to attracting, recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce. We seek the best talent from the widest pool of people because diversity, inclusion and belonging are critical to our success.
Closing Date: 24 August 2026
Interview Process: Presentation and competency‑based interview
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Head of Strategic HR & Advisory in Reading employer: Local Government South East
Reading Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With the opportunity to lead impactful initiatives in Adult Social Care while enjoying hybrid working arrangements and generous benefits, including access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, this role provides a meaningful career path in a vibrant community setting.
Contact Details:
Local Government South East Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Strategic HR & Advisory in Reading
✨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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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 Local Government South East.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Strategic HR & Advisory in Reading
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 Local Government South East. 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 Local Government South East 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 Local Government South East. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Local Government South East'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 Local Government South East
✨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 Local Government South East.
✨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 Local Government South East 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 Local Government South East and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
