At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead organisational development and change initiatives to enhance workforce performance.
- Company: Slough Borough Council, dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension scheme, flexible working, and wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for career growth and diverse employee networks.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team focused on creating an inclusive and high-performing workforce.
- Qualifications: Experience in organisational development and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 69641 - 78782 £ per year.
Directorate: Corporate Resources
Pay Level: SML11 – £69,641 to £78,782 fully inclusive of Local Weighting Allowance
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Observatory House/ Slough Hybrid (minimum 2 days per week in the office)
DBS requirement: Basic
Responsibilities
As Head of OD & Change, you will lead the Council’s culture, learning, talent and organisational development agenda, helping to build an agile, inclusive and high‑performing workforce that is confident, capable and equipped to deliver excellent outcomes for residents. You will design and deliver organisation‑wide change programmes that strengthen leadership, embed the Council’s values and behaviours, modernise learning and development, and create a joined‑up approach to talent management across the employee lifecycle. Working closely with senior leaders, staff and partners, you will use insight, engagement and collaboration to turn strategy into practical interventions that improve performance, accountability and ways of working.
Our vision is to make a difference to our communities and our environment, and we would love you to join us in our mission! All of our employees, whatever their job, contribute to delivering services to local people – either directly or by supporting colleagues. We celebrate diversity and are continuously striving for our residents to enjoy fulfilling, prosperous and healthy lives.
What we offer
- 26 days annual leave (not including Bank holidays), rising to 30 days between 2–5 years’ service and 33 days after 5 years’ service.
- The Local Government Pension Scheme
- Ability to engage with wellbeing initiatives and the opportunity to be a member of our various employee networks, which are key to ensuring we celebrate and promote equality.
- Tax‑free childcare and childcare services
- Season loan ticket – to help with the cost of your rail / bus journey to and from work.
Accessibility and Support
Slough Borough Council is an inclusive employer. We are keen to support you to feel comfortable throughout the application and interview process. Therefore, if you require any support throughout the application process or reasonable adjustments for the interview (e.g. questions being printed on the day or consideration for layout or lighting for the interview room), please contact our Recruitment Team who will be able to assist: Recruitment@slough.gov.uk. This information will be treated confidentially and used solely to ensure we provide appropriate support throughout the recruitment process and beyond.
Right to Work and Checks
All applicants must have a valid right to work in the UK. If you require sponsorship, please contact Recruitment@slough.gov.uk before submitting an application. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If appointed, all posts will be subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks.
Equal Opportunity
We select staff on merit and foster a workforce where people are valued and represent the local communities we serve.
Head of OD & Change in North East employer: Slough Borough Council
Slough Borough Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment. With flexible hybrid working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of local residents while enjoying a fulfilling career. Join us in our mission to enhance community wellbeing and quality of life through innovative and evidence-led commissioning strategies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of OD & Change in North East
✨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 Slough 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 Slough Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of OD & Change in North East
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 Slough 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 Slough 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 Slough 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 Slough 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 Slough 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 Slough 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 Slough 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 Slough Borough Council and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
