Director of People and Organisational Culture

Norwich City Council; England; Hybrid; GBP 99,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in England is seeking a Director of People and Organisational Culture. This role is crucial for driving employee engagement, promoting diversity, and ensuring a high-performing HR function. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a strong HR background and a passion for fostering an inclusive environment. The position offers a competitive salary and generous benefits, including flexible working and career development opportunities.

Benefits

32 days annual leave plus public holidays

Flexible and hybrid working

Learning and career development support

Health and wellbeing support

Local Government Pension Scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• Strong track record in HR, organisational development or related fields.
• Comfortable with complexity and change.
• Understanding of local government and democratic leadership.

Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership of the HR and OD functions.
• Driving employee engagement and wellbeing.
• Leading workforce planning and talent management.
• Promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Organisational development

Collaboration

Job description

Director of People and Organisational Culture Salary: Up to £98,937 + market supplement for exceptional candidates

We’re on a bold journey to transform our council into a modern, inclusive and high‑performing organisation. Norwich is a city full of energy, diversity and ambition and we’re looking for a strategic leader who shares our passion for making a lasting difference.

This is a pivotal role at the heart of our leadership team. As director of people and organisational culture, you will shape the future of our workforce and the way we work. You’ll lead the development of a thriving, values‑led organisation where people feel they belong, are supported to grow and are inspired to deliver great outcomes for our residents, communities and businesses.

Why Norwich?

Norwich is a place like no other. It is rich in history, full of character and home to a vibrant, diverse population. It’s a city where ambition is encouraged and innovation is embraced. We’re proud of our people, our communities and our workforce and we’re committed to creating a council that reflects the energy and diversity of the place we serve. You’ll be joining a team that’s passionate about making a real difference, where you can bring your whole self to work and help shape a future that’s inclusive, forward thinking and full of possibility.

About the role

This is more than a traditional HR leadership role. You’ll be responsible for embedding a culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement across the council. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Strategic leadership of the HR and OD functions, ensuring they are aligned with the council’s vision and deliver high quality, responsive services.
• Shaping organisational culture, fostering a sense of purpose, belonging and ambition across all levels of the workforce.
• Driving employee engagement and wellbeing, creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and able to thrive.
• Leading workforce planning and talent management, ensuring we attract, retain and develop the skills and capabilities needed for the future.
• Championing learning and development, embedding a culture of continuous learning and supporting career progression and leadership development.
• Advising senior leaders and elected members, acting as a trusted partner on all people-related matters, including change management, performance and leadership.
• Promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, ensuring inclusive practices are embedded in everything we do and reflected in our policies, behaviours and outcomes.
• Ensuring compliance and governance, maintaining high standards in HR operations, policies and procedures in line with legal and ethical requirements.
• Using data and insight to inform decisions, measure impact and drive continuous improvement.
• Building strong relationships with trade unions, fostering constructive dialogue and collaboration on strategic and operational issues.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is a strategic thinker and confident leader, comfortable with complexity and change.
• Has a strong track record in HR, organisational development or related fields.
• Understands local government and the importance of democratic leadership.
• Builds trust and credibility with colleagues, members and partners.
• Is passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion and knows how to embed it in everything we do.
• Leads with integrity, openness and ambition.

What we offer

We want you to thrive in your role and enjoy working here. Our offer includes:

• Generous leave – 32 days annual leave plus public holidays, including a Christmas closure period.
• Flexible and hybrid working – we focus on outcomes, not where you work
• Learning and career development – we invest in your growth and support your ambitions.
• Health and wellbeing support – including occupational health, mental health first aiders and employee assistance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme – a secure and competitive pension.
• Cycle to work scheme – helping you travel sustainably.

Ready to apply?

If you’re excited by the opportunity to lead meaningful change and help shape the future of our council, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and bring your ambition, creativity and leadership to a role that truly matters.

For more information, please visit: Join Norwich

Closing date: Sunday 14th of December 23:59

For a confidential conversation about this role. Please contact:

• Tom Niven on 07860 657044 or email: [e-mail]
• Rachael Morris on 07840 711217 or email: [e-mail]
• James Miller on 07701233159 or email: [e-mail]