At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations and provide strategic advice to enhance employee relations and services.
- Company: Walsall Council, committed to modern and inclusive HR practices.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional growth, and a focus on employee welfare.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to continuous improvement and safeguarding vulnerable groups.
- Why this job: Shape a people-centred HR service that makes a real difference in the community.
- Qualifications: Extensive HR leadership experience and strong knowledge of employment law required.
The predicted salary is between 92483 - 92483 £ per year.
- Walsall Council,
- Head of HR Advice and Operations - Ref: RT01226
Walsall Council is looking for an experienced and forward-thinking HR leader to join our HR and OD Leadership Team as
Head of Service - HR Operations and Advice .
This key leadership role will provide strategic and operational direction for HR advice, employee relations, HR operations, employment policy, schools HR support and workforce services.
You will lead the development of a modern, customer-focused HR service that enables managers to manage people confidently, fairly and consistently while improving outcomes for employees, services and residents.
You will
- Lead and develop HR Operations and Advice services across the Council.
- Provide expert guidance on complex employee relations and employment matters.
- Drive service improvement, digital transformation and modern HR practices.
- Use workforce data and insight to inform decision-making and improve performance.
- Build strong relationships with senior leaders, schools, trade unions and partners.
- Support organisational change, workforce planning and the delivery of the Council's strategic priorities.
- Ensure HR services are legally compliant, customer-focused and value-driven.
You will be an experienced HR professional with
- Significant senior HR leadership experience.
- Strong knowledge of employment law and employee relations.
- A track record of leading service transformation and change.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Experience of using data and technology to improve services and workforce outcomes.
- A commitment to inclusive leadership and continuous improvement.
Join us and help build a modern, responsive and people-centred HR service for Walsall.
View: Job Description and Employee Specification
This post is covered by the Government’s Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers.
The post holder will be required to communicate verbally with customers and provide advice and/or information in accurate spoken English.
Walsall Council takes seriously the responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all the children, young people and vulnerable adults entrusted to our care and it is our expectation that all staff will share this commitment.
We will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce.
Completion of an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check is a requirement for working with children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Note: Applicants appointed to posts that require an enhanced DBS clearance must declare any periods of time that they have lived, studied or worked abroad and be prepared to provide an Overseas Criminal Records Certificate (OCRC) or a Statement of Good Conduct (SOGC) relating to anytime they were overseas.
Legislation imposes restrictions on political activity for certain local government employees.
This position is designated as a politically restricted (sensitive) post as set out in Part 1 the Local Government & Housing Act 1989 and the Local Government (Political Restrictions) Regulations 1990 (LGO(PR)R 1990) [SI 851] and S.30 of the Local Democracy Economic Development and Construction Act 2009.
At Walsall Council, we appreciate that AI can be a useful tool for ideas or guidance.
However, we encourage you to make sure your application reflects your own voice and experiences.
Over-reliance on AI can make responses feel less personal, and we really want to understand what makes you unique.
Your experiences, skills, and perspective are what set you apart, so please ensure your application as a whole - particularly your ‘Supporting Information’ - reflects your own voice.
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Head of HR Advice & Operations - Ref: RT01226 in Walsall employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR Advice & Operations - Ref: RT01226 in Walsall
✨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 WMJobs!
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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 WMJobs.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR Advice & Operations - Ref: RT01226 in Walsall
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 WMJobs. 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 WMJobs 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 WMJobs. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to WMJobs'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 WMJobs
✨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 WMJobs.
✨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 WMJobs 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 WMJobs and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.