Organisation name Unison Reference number GS/7 Salary £109,145 including London Weighting and the Fixed Annual Subsistence Allowance Closing date Fri, 19 Dec 2025 - 12:00 Job location UNISON Centre NW1 Hours 35 Website https://www.unison.org.uk Apply Now About this Role
UNISON is recruiting a dynamic and experienced senior leader to serve as Assistant General Secretary (Chief Operating Officer). This high-impact role leads UNISON’s Organisation & Resource Development directorate and plays a central part in delivering a progressive, efficient and resilient union.
About this job
The Role
The Assistant General Secretary (COO) provides executive leadership across UNISON’s key operational functions, including:
1. ICT, digital systems and cybersecurity
2. HR, workforce planning and organisational development
3. Data governance and insights
4. Property, facilities and health & safety
5. Legal services
6. Events, conferences and venues
7. Membership systems and operational infrastructure
You will lead major transformation and modernisation programmes, strengthen governance and organisational performance, and champion digital innovation, culture change and continuous improvement across UNISON Centre and regions. The role supports the General Secretary, Presidential Team and NEC, leading Objective 4: Developing an efficient and effective union.
About You
We are seeking a politically aware, values-driven leader with:
Extensive senior leadership experience in large, complex or democratic organisations
Strong understanding of trade union governance and the public service environment
Proven experience in organisational change, digital transformation and operational modernisation
Broad knowledge across HR, ICT, data, legal services, property and compliance
Excellent communication, influencing, strategic planning and programme management skills
Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and UNISON’s democratic values
Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CIPD, digital transformation, organisational development) are desirable