Strategic Hr Leader

Description:

Lewisham Council is seeking a Head of People and Business Partnering, a strategic and inspiring HR leader ready to shape and deliver impactful people strategies across one of London’s most dynamic boroughs. Reporting directly to the Director of Law and Governance, this leadership role oversees the HR Business Partnering function, driving a customer-centric, high-performance HR service across the Council.

The successful candidate will be instrumental in leading workforce planning, organisational development, and transformational change initiatives. You’ll act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders, designing people strategies that support the Council’s long-term vision and inclusive values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop the HR Business Partnering team to deliver strategic, high-quality services.

• Shape people strategies that drive transformation, engagement, and performance across departments.

• Manage complex employee relations casework and people planning in line with legal and policy frameworks.

• Oversee organisational change, design, and workforce planning aligned to strategic goals.

• Act as a senior advisor to executive leadership in a politically complex environment.

What We’re Looking For:

• A proven senior HR practitioner with significant experience in complex, stakeholder-rich environments.

• A confident, collaborative leader with the ability to influence at the executive level.

• Strong track record of delivering people solutions in the public or local government sector.

• Deep understanding of equality, inclusion, and change leadership.

• Strategic mindset combined with practical delivery capability.

What’s Offered:

• Salary: £77,157 to £83,448 per annum (appointments usually start at the minimum SCP unless matching existing salary).

• Local Government Pension Scheme.

• Generous annual leave allowance.

• Flexible working arrangements and hybrid working model.

• Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work schemes.

• Subsidised gym memberships and staff discounts.

• Access to training and development, and inclusive support networks.

Special Notes:

• This role is part of an anonymous recruitment process; CVs are not accepted.

• A supporting statement addressing each person specification criterion is required.

• Applicants are encouraged to read the Applicant Handbook before applying.

Diversity & Inclusion:
Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer and actively supports applicants with health conditions and disabilities through adjustments in the recruitment process. The Council is proud to be the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, championing diversity and inclusion in public service.