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- Tasks: Lead workforce strategy and organisational development for Cheshire East Council.
- Company: Cheshire East Council, committed to transformation and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to shape organisational culture.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on sustainable improvement and regional growth.
- Why this job: A career-defining opportunity to lead change and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Experienced HR leader with a track record in large-scale transformation.
The predicted salary is between 100993 - 119532 £ per year.
Salary: £100,993 – £119,532
Location: Crewe / Macclesfield (hybrid, with borough‑wide travel)
Choose Challenge. Choose Change. Choose Cheshire East.
Overview
This is a core leadership role at the heart of Cheshire East’s transformation. You will lead the council’s workforce strategy and organisational development, shaping a modern, high‑performing organisation capable of delivering for residents and communities. Reporting to the Executive Director of Resources, you will have a core role in enabling the council’s wider transformation and future operating model.
This is a role defined by change. You will build and redefine the People function: clarifying purpose, modernising its operating model and ensuring it delivers real value to the organisation, putting its people at the heart of your work. You will lead major workforce transformation programmes, including organisational redesign, workforce planning, and significant change initiatives, while embedding a culture that is inclusive, high‑performing and focused on outcomes. For an experienced leader, this is a career‑defining opportunity to shape culture, capability and performance at scale.
The Organisation
Cheshire East Council is entering a significant period of transformation and renewal. The council has recently embarked on a programme of organisational change aimed at strengthening leadership stability, modernising services and ensuring long‑term financial resilience. At the same time, Cheshire East is preparing to work closely with the emerging Combined Authority, creating new opportunities to shape regional growth and collaboration. The council is committed to building a cohesive and resilient senior leadership team capable of delivering sustainable improvement and delivering lasting impact for residents, communities and businesses across the borough.
Who we’re looking for
We are seeking an experienced HR and Organisational Development leader with a track record of delivering large‑scale transformation within complex, ideally public sector organisations. You will bring deep expertise across workforce strategy, organisational design, employee relations and culture change, alongside experience of leading high‑performing HR and OD functions. You will be a resilient, pragmatic and values‑driven leader, with the credibility and political awareness required to operate effectively at senior levels. You will be comfortable leading significant change, including workforce restructuring and modernisation, while maintaining strong engagement and trust across the organisation. Above all, you will bring the clarity, energy and leadership required to rebuild the People function and enable the council to deliver its ambitions.
Contacts
- Rachael Morris – 07840 711217 or rachael.morris@penna.com
- Kelly Ridley – 07709 512415 or Kelly.ridley@penna.com
- Julie Towers – 07764 791736 or julie.towers@penna.com
For more information on the role, please visit https://wearecheshireeast.co.uk/.
Director of People employer: People Management magazine
Contact Detail:
People Management magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector or HR field. Attend local events or webinars where you can meet people who might know about opportunities at Cheshire East Council. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent initiatives and transformation programmes. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their goals and how you can contribute to shaping their workforce strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience in leading large-scale transformations and how it aligns with the role of Director of People. Keep it concise but impactful – you want to leave a lasting impression!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Cheshire East team. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in HR and organisational development. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Director of People, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: As a core leadership role, it’s essential to convey your leadership style in your application. We’re looking for someone who can lead change effectively, so share examples of how you’ve successfully managed transformation in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your passion for shaping a high-performing organisation shines through.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at People Management magazine
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Director of People and the specific challenges Cheshire East Council is facing. Research their recent transformation initiatives and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style, especially in managing change and building high-performing teams. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led workforce transformation programmes in the past.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Demonstrate your understanding of the council's vision for a modern, high-performing organisation. Share your thoughts on how you can contribute to shaping their workforce strategy and fostering an inclusive culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their approach to organisational redesign and how they measure success in their transformation efforts.