At a Glance
- Tasks: Support business owners in upskilling and organisational development to boost productivity.
- Company: Join the GM Business Growth Hub, a values-driven organisation focused on positive impact.
- Benefits: Shape workforce capability and contribute to regional growth strategies.
- Other info: High-impact role with opportunities for professional networking and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Greater Manchester's business landscape and support diverse organisations.
- Qualifications: Experience in organisational development, strong analytical skills, and confident communication.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Shape the future of upskilling across Greater Manchester. The GM Business Growth Hub is seeking an Organisational Development Specialist to support business owners with demonstrable experience, knowledge, and credibility within all areas of organisational development practice, to support business growth and good employment practices.
Core purpose
The position focuses on delivering high-quality organisational and workforce development assessments for a portfolio of business owners and leaders. It involves diagnosing people focused issues, identifying opportunities for improvement, and helping organisations create tailored action plans that align workforce development with wider business growth goals, to boost productivity.
Why this role matters
Greater Manchester is delivering an ambitious agenda for growth, productivity, and skills. To be effective in this role, you must have a strong understanding of:
- The Greater Manchester Strategy (GMS), including its missions around productivity, innovation, skills, and inclusive growth.
- The GM Good Growth Fund, its priorities, eligible sectors, and how workforce development contributes to improved business performance and wider economic outcomes.
- Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs), particularly how leadership capability, workforce development, and organisational culture support the skills needs of GM’s priority sectors.
These frameworks shape the region’s business support ecosystem, and your work will directly contribute to delivering their ambitions.
What you’ll be doing
- Build business relationships — establish strong connections with business owners, leaders, and key internal/external contacts to promote Organisational Development services and support high‑quality referrals.
- Develop professional networks — maintain a strong network of business and professional contacts to generate ongoing personal referrals.
- Manage client enquiries — handle enquiries face‑to‑face, virtually, by phone, and by email, assessing growth potential using appropriate tools and processes.
- Record CRM data — ensure all client enquiries and partner referrals are accurately logged in the Business Growth Hub CRM.
- Conduct diagnostics — carry out detailed in person diagnostics to identify the right starting point for support, followed by comprehensive training/organisational needs analyses.
- Explore workforce challenges — hold in‑depth discussions with clients to understand complex organisational development issues.
- Monitor outputs — track and collect output and impact data throughout the project lifecycle.
- Deliver workshops — run group learning sessions, workshops, and cohort programmes in person or via virtual platforms such as Microsoft Teams.
What we’re looking for
You’ll bring a blend of expertise, insight, and strong interpersonal skills. Essential attributes/experience include:
- Strong analytical skills — able to assess situations quickly and make sound decisions.
- Innovative mindset — spot opportunities and bring fresh ideas.
- Confident communicator — build relationships and networks with ease.
- Highly organised — plan effectively and manage priorities well.
- Strategic capability — operate at a senior level, meet tight deadlines, and handle complex challenges.
- Account management expertise — confident in managing business relationships and client portfolios.
- Organisational development specialist — experienced in facilitation, coaching, organisational change, performance analysis, culture, engagement, recruitment, retention, and induction.
- Qualified or experienced — degree/CIPD desirable, or equivalent professional experience.
- Proven track record — successful history of addressing a wide range of organisational development challenges.
- HR knowledge — strong understanding of HR policies, processes and workforce focused practices.
- Strong IT capability — confident using digital tools and systems.
- Excellent presenter — delivers clear, engaging written and verbal presentations.
Why join us?
This is a high‑impact role where you will:
- Shape workforce capability across Greater Manchester.
- Support businesses to grow through stronger, more confident managers and employees.
- Contribute to the delivery of regional strategies and investment programmes.
- Work with a diverse range of organisations and partners.
- Be part of a values‑driven organisation committed to making a positive difference.
Business Advisor - Organisation Development Specialist in Manchester employer: The Growth Company
The GM Business Growth Hub is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers employees to make a meaningful impact on the growth of businesses across Greater Manchester. With a strong focus on professional development, employees are provided with ample opportunities for growth through engaging workshops and networking, all while contributing to the region's ambitious economic strategies. Join us in shaping the future of workforce capability and enjoy the unique advantage of working in a values-driven organisation committed to positive change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Advisor - Organisation Development Specialist in Manchester
✨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 The Growth Company!
✨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 The Growth Company.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Advisor - Organisation Development Specialist in Manchester
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 The Growth Company. 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 The Growth Company 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 The Growth Company. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to The Growth Company'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 The Growth Company
✨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 The Growth Company.
✨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 The Growth Company 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 The Growth Company and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
