HR/OD Consultant | Job in Northumberland

As an HR/OD Consultant for a Local Authority in the North East, the following qualifications, skills, and experiences are essential:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Organizational Development, Psychology, or a related field is required. A Master's degree in one of these fields is preferred.

• Chartered Member of the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) or eligibility to obtain this qualification within a specified period is necessary.

• Relevant professional certifications such as SHRM-CP, SPHR, or similar are advantageous.

• Strong understanding of HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, training and development, performance management, and compensation and benefits.

• Proficiency in organizational development strategies, change management, and talent management is essential.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required to liaise effectively with various stakeholders at all levels within the Local Authority.

• Proven ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make evidence-based recommendations for improving HR practices and policies.

• Strong project management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage timelines, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

• Knowledge of employment law and best practices is essential to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and protect the Local Authority from potential legal issues.

• A solution-focused mindset, coupled with a proactive approach to problem-solving, is crucial for this role.

• Strong emotional intelligence to manage difficult situations, foster positive relationships, and promote a positive culture within the organization.

• Demonstrable ability to adapt to new technologies, systems, and tools used in HR functions.

• Experience working in or with public sector organizations is advantageous but not essential as long as the candidate can demonstrate transferable skills from their previous experience.

Application Steps

Thank you for your interest in the HR/OD Consultant role with the North East Local Authority. To apply for this position, please follow the steps below:

• *Review the Job Description:

• Carefully review the job description to ensure that your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role.

Prepare Your Application Materials:

• *Cover Letter:

• Tailor your cover letter to this specific role, highlighting your relevant experience and why you are a good fit for our organization.

• *Resume/CV:

• Ensure your resume is up-to-date and clearly outlines your work history, qualifications, and skills relevant to the HR/OD Consultant position.

• *Submit Your Application:

• Applications can be submitted via our online application system. To access the system, click on the "Apply Now" button found on the job posting page. You will be asked to create an account or log in if you already have one.

• *Include All Necessary Documentation:

• In addition to your cover letter and resume/CV, you may also be required to upload any additional documentation such as references, certifications, or transcripts. Please ensure that all required documents are included with your application.

• *Monitor Your Application Status:

• Once your application has been submitted, you can monitor its status through the online application system. If selected for an interview, a member of our HR team will contact you to arrange a suitable time and location.

We appreciate your interest in working with us and look forward to reviewing your application. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Good luck!

Diversity Statement

In alignment with the North East Local Authority's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, I am eager to bring my extensive experience and passion as an HR/OD Consultant to foster a workplace culture that embraces and celebrates diversity in all its forms.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated my dedication to promoting equal opportunities and fostering an inclusive environment. I believe that harnessing the power of diverse perspectives not only enhances creativity and innovation but also contributes significantly to the overall success of an organization.

My approach encompasses several key strategies:

• *Cultural Competence:

• I am committed to understanding, respecting, and valuing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all individuals within the Local Authority. This includes promoting awareness and education about diversity issues and fostering cultural competency among staff members.

• *Recruitment and Retention:

• I will strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are fair, inclusive, and accessible to all potential candidates. This involves reaching out to underrepresented groups, implementing blind recruitment practices where appropriate, and providing accommodations for candidates with disabilities.

• *Policy Development:

• I will work closely with stakeholders to develop and implement policies that promote diversity and inclusion, such as equal opportunity policies, anti-discrimination policies, and family-friendly policies. These policies will be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure they are effective and relevant.

• *Diversity Training:

• I will collaborate with internal trainers or external experts to develop and deliver diversity training programs for staff members. This training will aim to increase understanding of diversity issues, promote cultural sensitivity, and foster an inclusive work environment.

• *Networks and Groups:

• I will support the establishment and maintenance of employee resource groups (ERGs) or networks that provide a safe space for underrepresented groups to discuss their experiences, share ideas, and offer mutual support.

• *Data Analysis:

• I will regularly analyze diversity data to identify trends, monitor progress, and address any disparities. This data-driven approach will help us make informed decisions and target specific areas for improvement.

In conclusion, I am excited about the opportunity to join the North East Local Authority as an HR/OD Consultant and contribute to its ongoing efforts to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. I look forward to working collaboratively with colleagues, stakeholders, and community members to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Role Overview

In this dynamic and rewarding role as an HR/Organizational Development (OD) Consultant within a North East Local Authority, you will have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of citizens by driving positive change in the workforce. The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker, a strong collaborator, and a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• *Strategic HR Planning:

• Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with the organization's overall objectives. This includes talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and succession planning.

• *Organizational Development:

• Design and facilitate OD interventions to improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency. This could include team building, change management, leadership development, and culture transformation initiatives.

• *Policy Development and Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to all relevant employment laws and regulations, as well as the development of HR policies that align with best practices and promote a positive work environment.

• *Employee Relations:

• Manage complex employee relations issues, conduct investigations, and facilitate resolution processes to maintain a harmonious and productive workforce.

• *Talent Management:

• Identify high-potential employees, develop their skills, and retain top talent to ensure a robust succession pipeline.

• *Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI):

• Lead the development and implementation of DEI strategies to create an inclusive work environment that values and leverages diversity.

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master's degree or relevant professional certification (such as SHRM-SCP, SPHR) is highly desirable.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in HR and OD roles, preferably within the public sector or a large organization.

• Proven ability to design and implement successful HR strategies and OD interventions that lead to improved organizational performance.

• Strong understanding of employment laws and regulations, as well as best practices in HR and OD.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact effectively with employees at all levels of the organization.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to apply your HR/OD expertise in a challenging and meaningful context, while making a difference in your community. If you are passionate about creating positive change and ready to take on this rewarding challenge, we encourage you to apply!

Company Background

As one of the largest employers in the North East, we are dedicated to providing high-quality public services that meet the evolving needs of our residents. Our mission is to foster a culture that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.

We look forward to welcoming an innovative HR/OD Consultant who shares our passion for public service and is excited about playing a crucial role in shaping the future of our Local Authority. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to explore the opportunity further and submit your application today.