Freedom to Speak Up Guardian

Wakefield Council; Wakefield; Hybrid; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Wakefield is seeking a dedicated Freedom to Speak Up Guardian to lead initiatives that foster a culture of transparency and learning within the organisation. The role involves developing strategies to support employees in voicing their concerns, promoting inclusivity, and collaborating with senior leaders. Candidates should have a degree and substantial experience in managing employee relations. A hybrid working model is offered, along with opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Opportunities for personal and professional development

Supportive team environment

Hybrid working model with flexibility

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in caseload management and employee relations.
• Confident in presenting to senior leaders and influencing change.
• Strong understanding of organisational culture, equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a long-term strategy to embed a culture of openness.
• Support colleagues in speaking up and ensure their concerns are acted upon.
• Identify and address barriers to speaking up.
• Promote learning and improvement through effective reporting and feedback.

Skills

Excellent listening skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Empathy

Ability to manage sensitive information

Presentation skills

Strategic development

Education

Degree level education

Job description

Are you passionate about creating a culture where everyone feels safe to speak up?

Wakefield Council is seeking a dedicated and empatheticFreedom to Speak Up Guardianto lead a new initiative that champions openness, transparency, and learning across the organisation. This is a unique opportunity to shape a positive workplace culture and ensure everyvoice is heard.

About the Role
As the Council’s first Freedom to Speak Up Guardian, you will:

• Develop and lead a long-term strategy to embed a culture of openness
• Support colleagues in speaking up and ensure their concerns are heard and acted upon
• Identify and address barriers to speaking up
• Promote learning and improvement through effective reporting and feedback
• Work independently and impartially, while collaborating with senior leaders and teams across the Council

You will be a visible ambassador for change, helping to protect service quality, improve staff experience, and drive organisational development.

What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who:

• Is educated to degree level (or equivalent) with substantial experience in caseload management and employee relations
• Has excellent listening, communication, and negotiation skills
• Can manage sensitive and complex information with empathy and professionalism
• Is confident in presenting to senior leaders and influencing change
• Has a strong understanding of organisational culture, equality, diversity, and inclusion
• Can work independently and develop impactful strategies and training

Why Wakefield?

Wakefield Council is committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace. We offer:

• A hybrid working model with flexibility
• A chance to shape a new and meaningful role
• Opportunities for personal and professional development
• A supportive team environment where your voice matters

Apply Now
If you’re ready to lead cultural change and make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Want to Know More?

If you would like to know more about the role, the recruitment process or working for Wakefield Council feel free to contact Gillian Marshall.

Tel:[phone]

E-mail:[e-mail]

To apply please click theApply Nowlink below.