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- Tasks: Lead people strategy and drive organisational performance at WMCA.
- Company: Join the West Midlands Combined Authority, transforming the region for better living and working.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, 28 days leave, and discounts on shopping and gym memberships.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping an inclusive and innovative workplace culture.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 or equivalent experience in senior HR roles.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
At the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), we’re on a bold mission: to make our region the best place to live, work, and visit. Since our launch in 2016, we’ve been working hand-in-hand with local councils and partners to deliver transformative change across transport, housing, net zero, skills, and economic growth.
Our newly formed People & Culture Services directorate, led by Sarah Lal, Chief People & Culture Officer (CPCO), is at the heart of this transformation. We’ve set a fresh purpose, crafted a forward-thinking strategy, and are now rolling out a new Target Operating Model - designed to elevate employee experience, boost productivity, and align with WMCA’s ambitious goals.
The team is now focused on the following areas:
- Facilities, Workplace Services & Business Continuity
- Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
- Total Reward & Pay
- Strategic Business Partnering
- HR Operations, Policy & Shared Services
- Professions & Workforce Development
- Organisational Design, Development & Change
- Learning, EDI & Employee Experience
We’re not just changing how we work, we’re changing how we think, collaborate, and lead. A new structure and fresh ways of working are taking shape, and you could be part of this exciting journey.
We’re now looking for a dynamic and visionary Head of People Business Partnering and Strategic Planning to deputise for the Chief People & Culture Officer and lead the integration of our people strategy into every aspect of organisational performance. As the most senior People Business Partner at WMCA, you’ll play a pivotal role in enabling confident, inclusive, and future-focused leadership across all directorates.
Acting as a deputy conduit between Executive leadership and the People & Culture Services, you’ll ensure our people priorities are aligned with our transformation goals, service outcomes, and core values. If you feel like you’re already an ambassador of our values (Driven, Inclusive, Innovative and Collaborative), this might be the role for you.
What you will be doing:
- Shape and lead a future-ready, values-led business partnering model aligned with transformation goals.
- Act as the senior people advisor to Executive Directors on behalf of the CPCO as required, influencing strategy, governance, and investment through people insight.
- Embed people strategy into organisational design, change programmes, and workforce planning.
- Lead and develop a high-performing People Business Partnering team, building strategic capability and succession.
- Champion inclusive, ethical, and evidence-based leadership, aligned with CIPD and Civil Service HR standards.
- Ensure seamless collaboration across People & Culture Services, driving innovation and high performance.
- Provide strategic oversight of people risks, trends, and governance, using data to inform decisions.
- Lead people-input into business cases and investment planning, ensuring value for money and alignment with financial goals.
- Represent WMCA in senior forums and deputise for the CPCO as needed.
What you need:
- CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent senior-level HR experience).
- Extensive experience in a senior HRBP or strategic people leadership role within a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.
- Proven track record of influencing executive-level decision-making through people insight and strategic advice.
- Experience coordinating cross-functional People input across the employee lifecycle.
- Experience leading and developing high-performing HRBP teams and embedding business partnering models.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, people policy and public sector governance.
- Deep understanding of strategic workforce planning, organisational design, and change leadership.
- Skilled in using data, evidence, and systems thinking to drive people strategy and organisational outcomes.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, coaching, and influencing skills at Executive level.
- Strong awareness of strategic workforce drivers and organisational performance.
- Evidence of continued professional development.
Location: The location for this role is 16 Summer Lane. We currently operate a hybrid working model, where the expectation is 2 days a week in the office as a minimum, subject to business requirements. Due to the importance of this role and the new structure, it may be that you spend more time in the office for the start of your role.
How to apply:
Applying for a role with WMCA is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:
- Create your Careers Account. Register with your name, email address, and a password.
- Build your Profile. Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.
- Write your Supporting Statement. Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.
- Submit your application. Do one final check and once complete, click submit.
Salary and benefits:
We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Local Government Pension Scheme (one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK).
- Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contribution scheme.
- 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more) + Statutory days.
- Discounted gym membership, will writing, and mortgage advice.
- An option to buy a bicycle at a discounted rate.
- 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
- Interest-free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology.
- Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big-name retailers.
WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.
Creating an inclusive workplace is important to us. WMCA holds diversity accreditations and is committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria. We encourage individuals who are passionate about the role to apply, even if they don’t fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.
Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements.
Head of People Business Partnering and Strategic Planning (Deputy Chief People and Culture Officer) in Birmingham employer: West Midlands Combined Authority
Contact Detail:
West Midlands Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of People Business Partnering and Strategic Planning (Deputy Chief People and Culture Officer) in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. The more people know you’re looking for opportunities, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you showcase why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of People Business Partnering role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it relates to the job. Highlight your strategic thinking and leadership skills, as these are key for the Deputy Chief People and Culture Officer position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you can tailor your supporting statement to really shine.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of People Business Partnering and Strategic Planning (Deputy Chief People and Culture Officer) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Create a Standout Profile: When you register on our careers site, make sure your profile shines! Upload a CV that highlights your experience and skills relevant to the Head of People Business Partnering role. This is your chance to make a great first impression!
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is key! Address each essential criterion from the job description directly. Show us how your experience aligns with our mission at WMCA and how you embody our values of being Driven, Inclusive, Innovative, and Collaborative.
Be Thorough and Authentic: Don’t rush through your application. Take your time to be thorough in every section. We want to see the real you, so while AI can help, make sure your unique voice and experiences shine through!
Submit with Confidence: Before hitting that submit button, do a final check! Ensure everything is complete and reflects your best self. Remember, applying through our website is the way to go, so let’s get your application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Midlands Combined Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the West Midlands Combined Authority's mission and values. Understand their strategic goals and how the People Business Partnering role fits into that picture. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Head of People Business Partnering, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've influenced executive-level decision-making and led high-performing teams in the past. Be ready to discuss your strategies for fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture.
✨Data-Driven Insights
Since the role involves using data to inform people strategy, come prepared with examples of how you've used data analytics in previous roles. Discuss specific metrics you've tracked and how they influenced organisational outcomes. This shows you're not just about theory but can apply insights practically.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about their current challenges in people strategy or how they envision the future of the People & Culture Services directorate. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest.
