Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development

Swansea Council; Swansea; Hybrid; GBP 73,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Swansea seeks an experienced Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development. This pivotal role involves leading HR services, shaping workforce transformation, and providing strategic advice. Candidates should have a strong background in HR leadership, workforce planning, and political acumen, with Chartered CIPD membership required. The position offers £73,908 - £85,884 annually and supports a hybrid working model.

Benefits

Supportive and inclusive work environment

Flexible working arrangements

Focus on wellbeing and development

Qualifications

• Proven track record of senior HR leadership in a complex organisation.
• Experience of leading cultural change and embedding high-performance values.
• Strategic insight into workforce planning, organisational development and digital transformation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of the Council’s Workforce Strategy.
• Provide strategic advice to Cabinet Members and senior leaders on workforce matters.
• Oversee all HR and OD operations including employee relations and recruitment.

Skills

Senior HR leadership

Leading cultural change

Workforce planning

Political acumen

Education

Chartered CIPD membership

Job description

Head of Human Resources (HR) and Organisational Development (OD) (closing date: 25/08/2025)

£73,908 - £85,884 per year. We’re looking for an outstanding leader to join Swansea Council as Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development (HR and OD). This is a pivotal role within our Corporate Services Directorate, offering the opportunity to shape the future of our workforce and drive transformation across the organisation.

Post title: Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development (HR and OD)

Post number: CS.69387

Salary: £73,908 - £85,884

Job description:

Directorate/department: Corporate Services

Apply online now for post CS.69387

Closing date:,11.45pm, 25 August 2025

Further information

Lead Workforce Transformation in a Council That Puts People First

As Head of HR and OD, you’ll lead a talented team delivering the full spectrum of HR and OD services—from strategic workforce planning and organisational development to recruitment, payroll, wellbeing, and workforce analytics. You’ll also play a key role in shaping the Council’s transformation agenda and ensuring our people are empowered, supported and equipped to deliver for our communities.

Why Swansea?

Swansea Council is a values-led organisation with a strong sense of purpose and a collaborative, inclusive culture. Our people are proud to be part of “Team Swansea”—a workforce that is motivated, compassionate and committed to making a difference.

We are known for:

• A positive, empowering workplace culture that values openness, teamwork and innovation
• Strong, respectful relationships between officers, elected members and partners
• A clear vision for the future, underpinned by ambitious transformation and a commitment to continuous improvement
• A focus on growing our own talent, with increasingly successful apprenticeship and development pathways

What You’ll Do

• Lead the development and delivery of the Council’s Workforce Strategy and HR/OD Service Plan
• Provide strategic advice to Cabinet Members, Directors, and senior leaders on all workforce matters
• Drive innovation and transformation through workforce planning, digital enablement, and cultural change
• Oversee all HR and OD operations, including employee relations, leadership development, recruitment, payroll, and wellbeing
• Represent Swansea regionally and nationally on workforce matters, influencing the wider public sector agenda
• Act as Senior Responsible Officer for the Workforce and OD Transformation Board

What You’ll Bring

• A proven track record of senior HR leadership in a complex organisation
• Experience of leading cultural change and embedding high-performance values
• Strategic insight into workforce planning, organisational development and digital transformation
• Strong political acumen and the ability to influence at all levels
• Chartered CIPD membership (essential) and a commitment to continuous professional development

Our Commitment to You

We offer a supportive, inclusive and flexible working environment, with hybrid working arrangements and a strong focus on wellbeing and development. You’ll be part of a leadership team that values collaboration, integrity and innovation—and you’ll help shape the future of a council that’s proud to serve its communities.

Apply now and be part of something bigger.

Safeguarding

Within Swansea Council there is a “Safeguarding is Everybody’s Business” principle, and this applies to all Swansea Council employees, elected members, volunteers and contractors.

Job applications may be submitted in Welsh. An application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.