Head of Corporate Services

Jackson Hogg Ltd; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 72,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent North East organization is seeking an experienced Head of Corporate Services to oversee HR, governance, and administrative functions. The ideal candidate will lead strategic initiatives, ensure compliance with governance standards, and support team engagement. Strong leadership experience and a relevant degree are essential for this pivotal role in shaping the organization's operational excellence. This position offers a competitive salary of £85,000 and requires collaboration with the board for effective organizational governance.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of corporate governance principles.
• Proven leadership experience in governance or HR.
• Ability to lead teams and manage priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead HR, Learning & Development, and workforce planning.
• Champion staff engagement and development.
• Strengthen governance framework.
• Manage Corporate Services Department and key roles.

Skills

Leadership

Corporate governance knowledge

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Education

Degree in HR, business management, governance, or related field

Job description

Head of Corporate Services

Location: Tyne and Wear
Salary: £85,000

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for people, governance, and high-quality corporate services? I'm delighted to be supporting this North East client in their search for an experienced Head of Corporate Services to play a pivotal role in shaping how their organisation is governed, supported, and developed.

As Head of Corporate Services, you will lead the HR, governance and administrative functions, ensuring operations are efficient, transparent, and aligned with both legal requirements and organisational values. Working closely with the Strategic Director and Board, you will help drive strategy and embed a strong culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Duties and responsibilities will include:

People, HR & Organisational Development

• Lead HR, Learning & Development, and workforce planning to support the clients' strategic goals.
• Champion staff engagement, performance, wellbeing, and development.
• Ensure HR policies are compliant, fair, and up to date.
• Align local HR practices with the wider Group HR strategy.

Governance & Risk

• Lead and strengthen governance framework in line with legal and internal standards.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the Managing Director and Board on governance and risk matters.
• Oversee Board and committee activity, including agendas, papers, and minutes.
• Maintain and develop policies, documentation, and governance reporting.

Corporate & Administrative Services

• Manage and develop the administrative team, ensuring high-quality support to corporate and Board functions.
• Maintain effective systems for meetings, document control, and office operations.
• Drive the use of digital tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the Corporate Services Department with clear direction and purpose.
• Manage key roles including the Governance Officer and Corporate Services Assistant.
• Support and promote company values and culture across the organisation.
• Work with the Director of Strategy to deliver strategic objectives.

Criteria

You will be a confident, credible leader with strong judgement and excellent interpersonal skills. You'll be comfortable working at Board level, managing complexity, and balancing strategic thinking with operational delivery.

You will bring:

• Strong knowledge of corporate governance principles.
• Proven leadership experience in governance, HR, or corporate/administrative services.
• The ability to lead teams, manage competing priorities, and deliver results.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and relationship-building skills.

Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent experience) in HR, business management, governance or a related field.
• Professional membership (e.g. CIPD) is desirable.