Location: Aylesbury
Overview
Are you an experienced HR leader with a talent for policy, pay, and reward management? We’re seeking a strategic Employment and Reward Manager to join our HR & OD service. This is a pivotal role in shaping the council’s HR strategies, fostering productive relationships with trade unions, and driving forward pay and reward initiatives that make a tangible difference to our people. You will work at the heart of a dynamic organisation, influencing key decisions and ensuring our policies remain progressive and people focused.
We value innovation, collaboration, and clear communication, and you’ll have the platform to implement creative solutions that enhance our workplace. If you thrive in a role where your expertise has a direct impact on employee experience and organisational success, we invite you to bring your vision and leadership to our team.
About us
Buckinghamshire Council is a relatively new organisation that combines the strengths and expertise of the previous five councils in the county to create positive change for local people, communities, and businesses. We are firmly focused on the future and have made a clear commitment to serve residents better and to provide stronger representation for Buckinghamshire, both locally and nationally.
Our HR & OD team plays a crucial role in supporting the council's objectives by fostering a high-performing and engaged workforce. We value adaptability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, and we are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.
About the role
As the Employment and Reward Manager, you will lead the strategic development and delivery of the council’s pay, reward, and HR policy frameworks. You will manage trade union relationships, oversee a team of specialists, and ensure alignment with the council's goals.
Your responsibilities will include:
1. Leading the development, review, and implementation of corporate reward systems, including pay review processes and employee recognition programs.
2. Providing expert advice to senior leaders on people strategies, policy development, and operational planning.
3. Managing and motivating a team of HR professionals, promoting innovation and continuous improvement.
4. Acting as the lead officer on trade union and employee relations matters, maintaining relationships with recognized unions, and managing negotiations.
5. Ensuring timely and accurate job evaluation services and managing a budget of approximately £100k.
Please see the attached job summary for further information on the role.
Any-Desk:
As an ‘any-desk’ worker, you’ll need to be connected to our network to access digital folders and resources, but this can either be from home or an office location when required. You will be required to work from the office a couple of times a week, depending on your role and team requirements.
About you
To be successful in this role, you will need:
6. Extensive experience in managing a Policy & Reward function in a large, complex organisation.
7. Substantial experience in managing specialist services that support complex service delivery, with expert technical and professional knowledge.
8. Up-to-date knowledge of best practices and developments in reward and policy, with evidence of effective implementation.
9. Excellent leadership skills to inspire, motivate, and develop team members to high levels of performance.
10. Strong persuasion and negotiating skills, with the ability to influence outcomes critical to the organisation.
11. A relevant professional qualification or equivalent experience
If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for HR policy and reward management, we would love to hear from you.