Your New OrganisationSouthend-on-Sea City Council is a unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the localmunity. We employ around 1,800 staff who work alongside our partners and localmunities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.Working for Southend-on-Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in localernment within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work-life balance. As a Unitary Authority, we are responsible for all localernment functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards,munity safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy andmunities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Your new roleSouthend‑on‑Sea City Council is seeking an ambitious and influential Strategic People Partner (HR) to help shape a future‑ready workforce and drive strategic transformation across a major Directorate. This is a full‑time, permanent role offering a hybrid working pattern (a blend of home and office). In this post, you will partner with senior leaders to develop and deliver Directorate people plans aligned with corporate priorities and the Council’s evolving HR operating model. You will lead key workforce initiatives, including organisational design, workforce planning, talent development, succession planning, and cultural change.You will overseeplex employee relations matters and long‑term sickness management, while driving improvements in employee engagement, wellbeing, and inclusion. You will use workforce data and insights to shape decision‑making, strengthen leadership capability and support continuous improvement. You will champion collaboration across HR, OD and Council-wide teams will be essential to delivering integrated, effective people solutions that support transformation and service excellence.
What you'll need to succeedTo be successful in this post, it is essential that you have good knowledge of localernment structures and procedures and a clear understanding of political frameworks. Substantial HR leadership experience in aplex environment preferably within localernment alongside strong knowledge of organisational development, change management and workforce planning is essential for this post.It is crucial that you can influence senior stakeholders, navigate political environments and manage strong relationships with Trade Unions. Your ability to coach leaders, build credibility and operate with resilience will be vital for this post. You will demonstrate integrity, adaptability and amitment to creating inclusive, high‑performing cultures that deliver positive oues for employees and residents.It is vital that you are CIPD qualified (Lvl 5 minimum) or possess equivalent in‑depth HR experience.
What you'll get in returnWhen joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They aremitted to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.