At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead payroll and recruitment services to enhance workforce support and efficiency.
- Company: Slough Borough Council, dedicated to community impact and employee growth.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 26-33 days leave, pension scheme, and wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with diverse staff networks and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of recruitment and payroll while making a difference in the community.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll and recruitment management with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Slough Borough Council is looking for an ambitious and forward-thinking Head of Payroll & Recruitment to lead two critical services at the heart of our organisation. This is a senior leadership opportunity to shape how we attract, recruit, pay and support our workforce, ensuring that colleagues across the Council receive accurate, responsive and customer-focused services that enable them to deliver the best possible outcomes for our communities.
You will take full accountability for the performance, governance and continuous improvement of payroll, recruitment and employee lifecycle services, providing visible leadership to a specialist team and working closely with senior stakeholders across the Council. From strengthening payroll controls and ensuring statutory compliance, to modernising systems, improving recruitment pace and quality, reducing reliance on agency and interim staffing, and managing key supplier contracts, you will drive practical change that improves efficiency, resilience and value for money.
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.
We offer a supportive place to grow and develop your career with a real opportunity for your input to be valued and heard. Ambition and innovation will be required now more than ever, and you will join a friendly and collaborative environment where you are encouraged to thrive. We understand that everyone has different needs and circumstances. That's why we're committed to offering flexible and hybrid working arrangements that help you achieve the best work-life balance and accommodate different working patterns. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We select staff on merit and foster a workforce where people are valued and represent the local communities we serve.
Alongside a competitive salary, we provide:
- 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.
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.
Slough Borough Council offers a variety of staff networks for you to be part of. Networks represent our diverse staff groups and come together to help the organisation be a place where our people can feel included and thrive.
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.
Head of Payroll & Recruitment in Slough 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 Payroll & Recruitment in Slough
✨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!
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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.
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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 Slough Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll & Recruitment in Slough
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.