Head of HR & Organisational Development in Southampton

Hampshire & the Solent Combined County Authority (HSCCA) is a newly established strategic authority bringing together local partners to drive economic growth, improve public services and enhance quality of life across the region. As a new organisation, HSCCA is focused on building strong foundations, a clear organisational culture and the capacity needed to deliver on ambitious priorities. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role at the start-up phase of a Combined Authority and shape how it works for years to come.

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of HR & Organisational Development to lead the people function during a critical establishment and transition period. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Executive Leadership Team, you will design and deliver a modern, values‑led HR and OD approach that supports a high‑performing, future‑focused, and inclusive organisation. The role operates at pace in a complex, multi‑stakeholder environment and requires a pragmatic, hands‑on approach combined with the ability to provide strong strategic leadership.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the HR & OD function across HSCCA, providing expert advice to the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team
• Design and deliver an initial People Strategy aligned to the Authority’s statutory responsibilities and priorities
• Shape organisational culture, leadership development and organisational design activity
• Finalise and implement HR policies and ensure compliance and accessibility
• Provide senior HR leadership on complex change, including TUPE and restructures
• Build and lead an effective HR service, systems, workforce insight and external providers
• Lead the Authority’s approach to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and employee voice
• Oversee senior and executive recruitment and the employee value proposition

About you

You will bring substantial senior HR leadership experience, ideally gained in a complex public sector or similarly regulated environment, with the credibility and confidence to influence at senior level. You will have Chartered Membership of CIPD or equivalent senior HR leadership experience. Proven experience leading complex organisational change including TUPE. Deep understanding of employment legislation, workforce policies and public‑sector governance frameworks. A strong track record in organisational development and workforce planning. Experience building and leading professional HR teams. Excellent understanding of employment legislation and governance. Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder‑management skills. Previous experience supporting a new organization or service will also be an advantage.

Our preferred Head of HR & Organisational Development will demonstrate strong professional integrity, acting in line with the Nolan Principles, exercising sound judgement, and managing sensitive information with discretion. They will build credibility quickly, engage and influence effectively across a wide range of people, and provide clear, confident advice in complex and politically aware environments. The role requires a strong commitment to equality, inclusion and responsible stewardship of public resources.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the culture and people strategy of a newly established Combined County Authority at the heart of England’s devolution agenda. Working across Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council and the Isle of Wight Council, the role will help build the organisational foundations needed to deliver significant devolved powers, investment and long‑term regional impact. It offers the chance to influence how a new strategic authority operates, partners effectively across the region, and supports inclusive growth and improved outcomes for communities.

What we can offer you

Salary

The salary band for this role is £83,643 - £91,823 per annum. The starting salary is £83,643 with annual progression through the salary bands.

Here at SCC we have a range of different benefits, a few examples can be found below:

• Excellent local government pension with 15.2% employer contribution
• Death in service benefit of x3 salary, and optional salary sacrifice shared cost AVC (additional voluntary contribution)
• Generous holiday 25–31 days, based on role and service
• Flexible working options (role‑dependent)
• Family‑friendly policies - Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, Shared/Unpaid Parental Leave, Time off for Dependents
• Training and development, including coaching and mentoring
• Health and wellbeing support - Employee Assistance Programme, Menopause Pledge, Mental Health First Aiders and access to a variety of staff networks
• Veteran‑friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant
• Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform
• Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres
• Sustainable travel benefits - low emission car scheme, cycle to work, season ticket loans
• Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer

For further information on our benefits package please visit: Employee benefits (southampton.gov.uk)

For further information and details regarding the role, please contact Munira Holloway, at munira.holloway@southampton.gov.uk.

Interview Information

Please note that interviews are scheduled for week commencing 25th May 2026.