HR Lead

Thrive Group; England; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in Bolton is seeking an HR Lead to oversee HR operations for approximately 700 employees. The role involves managing HR casework, leading a team, and providing strategic HR advice. Candidates must have relevant HR qualifications and experience, with a strong emphasis on leadership and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience delivering HR strategies in large organizations.
• Experience working with Trade Unions in formal forums.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Departmental HR Team and lead all operational HR processes.
• Oversee HR work, providing strategic advice on employment law and procedures.
• Manage complex casework and support the Senior HR leadership team.

Skills

Communication

Data Analysis

Leadership

Planning and Prioritization

Presentation Skills

Education

HR Qualification

Relevant Degree

Job description

Thrive Oldham is recruiting for an 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, with management responsibility for 2 direct reports.

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

Primary Purpose of Job

To manage the Departmental HR Team and lead all operational HR processes and activities, with portfolios to be assigned.

Reporting to

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

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 and supporting panels on dismissals, redundancies, and escalated grievances, including liaising with Elected Members/Governors in an advisory capacity.
4. Lead HR/OD elements of cross-cutting projects and regional initiatives, contributing to project groups.
5. Effectively manage and oversee all casework, coaching, mentoring, and developing HR staff.

1. Advise on recruitment campaigns, supporting processes such as Senior/Chief Officer and Head/Deputy Headteacher recruitment.
2. Ensure high-quality service delivery and manage budgets involving third parties, ensuring professional standards meet customer expectations.
3. Develop and deliver training to managers on HR strategies and functions, including recruitment, policy updates, and interpersonal skills.
4. Attend internal and external meetings, including HR Management Team, Departmental Leadership Team, Trade Union meetings, and regional forums.
5. Handle Trade Union queries and concerns, managing facilities time issues for officials and ad-hoc requests.
6. Engage with TU representatives regularly to maintain good employment relations, attending and presenting at various forums.

1. Collaborate across departments on HR-related matters, including Legal Services, Audit, Procurement, and Marketing.

1. Provide advice and guidance on wellbeing initiatives, including Occupational Health and safety, and lead regional wellbeing projects.
2. Respond to escalated queries from senior stakeholders and external partners, including complaints and policy issues.
3. Lead regional groups and pilots, representing Bolton at external groups, and leading local and regional work streams.
4. Analyze HR data, present insights, and develop proactive solutions for service areas.
5. Anticipate workforce issues and prepare the service accordingly.
6. Contribute to policy development, communication, and training tailored to service needs.
7. Support and deputize for divisional leadership, handling issues and complaints as needed.

Skills and Knowledge

1. Knowledge of local government employment terms and conditions.

2. Effective communication skills for all levels and external partners.

3. Up-to-date employment law knowledge and regional initiatives.

4. Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion issues.

5. Planning and prioritization skills.

6. Data analysis and reporting skills, including report writing and briefings.

7. Leadership and staff development capabilities.

8. Presentation skills and training delivery experience.

9. Ability to build strategic networks internally and externally.

10. Commitment to service improvement and policy development.

Experience/Qualifications/Training

1. Recognized HR qualification or relevant degree.

2. Experience delivering HR strategies in large organizations.

3. Experience working with Trade Unions in formal forums.

Work-Related Circumstances

1. Mandatory training and ongoing development are required.

2. Adherence to the Council’s Values & Behaviours framework.

3. The role is politically restricted, prohibiting active political engagement, candidacy, or canvassing, and restricting participation in elected office.