Job Purpose Summary:

• To develop and implement People and OD strategies that place Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) at the leading edge of a good employment practice; achieves year on year improvements in the quality of working life for its staff; and contributes to continuous improvement in the services provided by the Trust.  

• As a member of the Executive Team and Trust Board, to make a major contribution to the strategic thinking and development of the Trust and the achievement of corporate objectives.

• To drive organisational development, focusing on improving the organisation through strong staff engagement, excellence in leadership, and an organisational culture which supports delivery of HCT’s strategic objectives, including being a ‘Great Place to Work’.

• To provide leadership and direction to the People and Learning/OD Directorate and associated outsourced functions, ensuring the organisation is supported by highly capable and professional functions which are customer-focused and deliver value for money.

• To contribute to the development of national, regional and ICS people strategies, policies and directives and lead their implementation in the Trust.

Person Specification

You will bring the following essential skills and experience: 

• Educated to master’s degree level or have an equivalent level of experience

• Chartered Fellow or Member of the CIPD

• Significant experience of leading a People/HR function in an organisation of comparable complexity

• Exposure to working at Board level and with Executive teams

• Experience of leading culture and organisational development

• Evidence of successful development, implementation and delivery of people strategies and operational plans

• A compassionate, inclusive and engaging style of leadership

• A willingness to raise and tackle complex issues, including in relation to diversity and inclusion

• Experience of working in partnership both externally with other organisations and internally with staff and unions

• Most importantly, you will bring a passion for pursuing excellent people practice and an enthusiasm to lead the Trust on its journey to be a ‘Great Place to Work’.