Job Title: HR Business Partner Location: Essex (with hybrid working across two council sites) Pay Rate: £24.75 per hour Contract Type: Full-Time, Temporary for 6 months Are you an experienced HR professional ready to step into a strategic business partnering role within a forward-thinking and collaborative public sector environment? We're delighted to be supporting a respected local authority partnership in the search for a HR Business Partner to join their People & OD team. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference-working across two councils to deliver effective, people-focused HR solutions that align with wider organisational change and strategic development. About the Role: Reporting to the Service Manager - People & OD, you will act as a trusted HR advisor to senior leaders and managers, playing a key role in both strategic initiatives and complex operational matters. You'll also deputise for the Service Manager when needed, providing leadership representation at internal and external forums. Key Responsibilities: Deliver expert advice on the full spectrum of HR issues, including case management, employee relations, organisational change, and TUPE. Lead and contribute to corporate HR projects and OD initiatives that drive efficiency and engagement. Develop, review and embed HR policies and training in line with best practice and current employment legislation. Maintain a proactive presence across both partner councils to ensure continuity, consistency, and resilience of HR service delivery. Line manage and support the development of a HR Officer and oversee accurate payroll processing. Support equality, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, wellbeing, employee engagement, and digital process improvement. Contribute to the implementation of the Organisational Development strategy and workforce priorities across the councils. About You: CIPD Level 5 qualified (or equivalent experience) with a strong commitment to CPD. Demonstrable experience in a HR Business Partner or Senior HR Advisor capacity, ideally within the public sector or a unionised environment. Confident in leading complex employee relations cases, delivering training, and managing change initiatives. Strong working knowledge of employment law and HR best practice, with the ability to translate this into practical, people-focused solutions. A skilled communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Comfortable managing competing priorities in a fast-paced, multi-site environment. Flexible to work across both council locations, with occasional evening or regional travel commitments. Why Apply? Be part of a collaborative and supportive People & OD team making a real organisational impact. Lead meaningful HR and OD change in a values-led public service. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a varied, engaging workload. Develop your professional skills and contribute to a service committed to continuous improvement. Interested in leading HR innovation and supporting organisational change in the public sector? Apply today or contact one of our consultants to find out more.