At Merton we are working to be London’s best Council.  At the heart of this is a commitment to be a business-like Borough, one that understands the cost and value of our work and ensures everything we do contributes to meeting the priorities we have agreed with our residents.  As Head of Human Resources, you will take the lead on reshaping our HR service so that it provides outstanding advice and support, pro-actively optimises the effectiveness of our people, and helps drive successful organisational transformation.

About the role

Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services and working closely with Members and Corporate Management Team, you lead and shape the HR service, currently 29 strong with a budget of £2.4m.  You will:

·     Provide strategic leadership to ensure that HR is of the highest standard, developing and delivering SLAs with Council services that ensures corporate priorities are supported by outstanding HR advice and support

·     Take the lead on the delivery of the Merton Workforce Strategy to ensure our workforce is fit for the future

·     Explore options on future service provision, including appraisal of the opportunities provided by future shared working

You and your HR service will ensure we develop, retain and deploy an exceptional workforce.  You will deliver consistent and professional expertise and advice that supports the achievement of corporate objectives.

To be London’s Best Council, we will need exceptional HR leadership.  Could that be you?

About you

You will bring a track record of successful HR leadership in complex public sector organisations. You will be able to demonstrate how you have used your expertise to effect cultural change and achieve transformational impact.  Evidence of the delivery of HR service improvement and change will be critical.   Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) qualifications are essential.

How to apply

For further information and to apply please visit www.hays.co.uk/jobs/merton-council

Please submit a current CV along with a supporting statement that addresses the Role Profile and demonstrates how you meet its requirements.  Please also provide details of two referees including name, position, organisation, email and telephone number, one of whom should be your current or most recent employer.  If you do not wish us to approach your referees without your permission please state so clearly.  Please also advise us if you have any challenges with the advertised interview dates.

For an informal discussion about the roles please contact our recruitment consultants at Hays Executive, Mark Bearn or Margaux Shipley on 020 7259 8743.

The closing date for applications is Monday 15th July.

Technical Interviews: w/c 22nd and 29th July

Final Interviews: Thursday 8th August