Head of Talent and Leadership

JSS Search; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for a Head of Talent and Leadership to spearhead the design and execution of leadership development initiatives in Berkshire. This role focuses on shaping leadership capabilities, facilitating high-performance cultures, and supporting succession planning. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in leadership strategies, facilitation, and diversity & inclusion initiatives, along with strong stakeholder management skills.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leadership development and talent strategy.
• Strong facilitation skills and experience working with senior leaders.
• Knowledge of succession planning and high-potential frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of senior leadership development initiatives.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to assess leadership capability needs.
• Monitor the impact of leadership development on performance and retention.

Skills

Leadership development

Talent strategy

Facilitation skills

Stakeholder management

Diversity and Inclusion

Job description

We are working with an exciting client who are seeking a strategic and delivery-focused Head of Talent and Leadership to lead the design and implementation of senior leadership and talent development initiatives. This role will shape leadership capability, support succession planning, and drive a culture of high performance and inclusion.

The role will be based in Berkshire and will need someone in the office 3 days per week.

Strategic Leadership

• Design and implement a leadership development strategy aligned to organisational goals.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to identify current and future leadership capability needs.
• Evaluate and refine leadership initiatives to ensure relevance, impact, and innovation.

Programme Design & Delivery

• Lead the design and execution of senior leadership development programmes, including coaching, workshops, and masterclasses (primarily delivered through third parties).
• Source and manage high-quality external providers and tools to deliver engaging learning experiences.
• Serve as subject matter expert (SME) in leadership development, supporting the wider Learning & Development team.

Talent Management

• Lead high-potential talent identification and development processes.
• Support succession planning through targeted interventions and readiness strategies.
• Monitor the impact of leadership development on performance, retention, and capability uplift.

Diversity & Inclusion

• Collaborate with senior leaders to embed inclusive development strategies and programmes.
• Oversee employee network groups, ensuring visible leadership support and strategic alignment.
• Facilitate the organisation’s D&I committee and drive accountability for diversity targets.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in leadership development and talent strategy
• Strong facilitation skills and experience working with senior leaders
• Track record of delivering learning solutions through third parties
• Knowledge of succession planning and high-potential frameworks
• Experience embedding D&I into learning and development
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills