HR Lead. Job in Bolton Education & Training Jobs

Thrive Group; Ribble Valley; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the Ribble Valley is seeking an experienced HR Lead to manage a busy HR team overseeing casework for around 700 employees. The role involves strategic advice, managing complex cases, and leading HR initiatives. Candidates must have relevant HR qualifications and experience in large organizations. On-site presence is required for at least 3 days a week.

Qualifications

• Experience in delivering HR strategies in large, complex organizations.
• Experience working with Trade Unions in formal settings.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all HR work within the Departmental HR Service.
• Manage complex casework and provide strategic advice.
• Lead HR/OD elements of cross-cutting projects.

Skills

Effective communication

Leadership

Strategic networking

Project management

Education

Recognized HR qualification

Relevant degree

Job description

Thrive Oldham is recruiting for a HR Lead in the Bolton area.

We have an urgent requirement for an experienced HR Manager to join a busy team overseeing all aspects of HR casework for approximately 700 employees working in Libraries, Legal, Finance, Marketing, Policy, and Property — the "business" arm of the Council. The candidate must have relevant experience and qualifications as per the job description. The role includes managing two direct reports.

On-site presence is expected for a minimum of 3 days per week. Please note, there is no flexibility on the wage.

Primary Purpose of the Job

To manage the Departmental HR Team and lead all operational HR processes and activities. Portfolios will be assigned accordingly.

Reporting To

Head of HR Operations for Corporate Resources HR Lead, Place HR Lead, Adults and Public Health HR Lead.

Main Duties

1. Oversee and be accountable for all HR work within the respective Departmental HR Service, including providing strategic advice to support management and employees regarding procedures, conditions of service, employment law, and government initiatives.
2. Support the wider Senior HR leadership team to deliver key priorities outlined in our People Plan, understanding key corporate initiatives and strategies, and actively supporting these.
3. Manage complex casework, including efficiency reviews, supporting panels for dismissal, redundancy, and escalated grievances with elected members and governors in a lead HR advisory capacity.
4. Lead HR/OD elements of cross-cutting projects and regional initiatives, contributing actively to project groups.
5. Provide effective line management and oversight of all casework, including coaching, mentoring, and developing HR staff.

1. Advise on recruitment campaigns and support processes, especially for senior roles such as Chief Officers and Head/Deputy Headteachers.
2. Ensure high-quality HR service delivery and manage budgets involving third parties, ensuring services meet customer expectations.
3. Develop and deliver training to managers on HR strategies and functions, enabling effective staffing management.
4. Attend internal and external meetings, including HR Management Teams, Departmental Leadership Teams, Trade Union meetings, and regional forums.
5. Manage Trade Union relations, including addressing queries and managing facilities time issues.
6. Engage with TU representatives to maintain good employment relations and represent Bolton at external groups, leading work streams such as the GM social worker pledge and regional recruitment events.

1. Collaborate cross-departmentally on HR matters, including legal cases, audits, procurement, and marketing.

1. Provide advice on wellbeing, occupational health, health and safety, and champion wellbeing initiatives.
2. Handle escalated queries from senior stakeholders, including complaints and policy issues.
3. Lead and represent Bolton at external groups and initiatives, contributing to policy development and proactive service solutions.
4. Analyze HR data, present insights, and develop bespoke solutions for service areas.
5. Anticipate workforce issues and prepare the service proactively.
6. Contribute to policy development, communication, and training tailored to service needs.
7. Support and deputize for the divisional leadership team as needed.

Skills and Knowledge

Must possess:

• Knowledge of local government employment terms and conditions.
• Effective communication skills at all organizational levels and with external partners.
• Up-to-date employment law knowledge and understanding of regional initiatives.
• Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion issues.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and interpret data for strategic solutions.
• Leadership skills to manage and develop HR staff.
• Ability to present and deliver training effectively.
• Strategic networking abilities internally and externally.
• Experience in policy development, project management, and collaborative working.

Qualifications and Experience

• Recognized HR qualification or relevant degree.
• Experience in delivering HR strategies in large, complex organizations.
• Experience working with Trade Unions in formal settings.

Work-Related Circumstances

• Mandatory training and continuous development are required.
• Adherence to the Council's Values & Behaviors is expected.
• This role is politically restricted; the employee cannot engage in active political roles or activities.