Job Description
Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities!
We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.
The role
As our new
Head of Organisational Development, you will lead the work to build the skills, behaviours and leadership we need across the council. Your work will shape how we grow and retain our people, support inclusive progression, and strengthen our organisational culture. This is a high-impact, high-profile role — and an opportunity to make a long-term difference.
You will play a key role in aligning our people strategy with the Council’s wider transformation journey, ensuring we have the capability and culture to deliver lasting change for our residents.
You will lead:
- Our corporate learning and development offer — including digital, leadership and early careers
- Organisational development programmes and interventions that support change, culture and service improvements
- Inclusive talent strategies that help us grow, recognise and retain our people
- Work to embed equality, diversity and inclusion in everything we do
This role sits at the heart of our People and OD service. You will lead a team of skilled professionals and help shape how we work — now and in the future.
What We Are Looking For
We are seeking a senior organisational development leader who can inspire change and deliver results. You will be a strategic thinker with deep expertise in organisational development, learning and talent, and a clear understanding of the challenges facing local government.
You will be energised by the opportunity to support and enable organisational transformation through people, culture and leadership.
You will bring a strong track record of designing and delivering inclusive, practical people strategies that improve culture, develop talent and support change. You will also have the confidence and credibility to lead across political, executive and cross-sector environments.
Your ability to influence, build relationships and lead high-performing teams will be key to your success.
If you are ready to shape how we work, grow our people and build an inclusive culture — then Lewisham is the place to be.
What we offer:
- £77,157–£83,448 per year (SMG3)
N.B: All appointments will be offered at the minimum spinal column point (SCP) for the grade of the role. The only exception to this will be when matching current salary (up to the maximum of the scale), which is subject to evidential proof.
- A strong commitment to your development
- Generous holiday allowance
- Local Government Pension scheme
- Flexible working and family friendly policies
- Season ticket and bicycle loans
- A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
- Supportive staff networks
Location
The role is primarily based at Laurence House, 1 Catford Road, London SE6 4RU. We operate a hybrid working model, with a mix of office and remote working.
Special conditions
The recruitment process is anonymous and we don’t accept CV’s.
Applicant handbook - please read the guidance in this handbook when applying. It is essential that you complete the application fully and that your supporting statement covers how you meet each of the person specification criteria listed.
For an informal discussion about this job, please contact Nohaila Alavi -
[email protected]Please click here to view the [Job Description and Person Specification]
Diversity
Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply
The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works , which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email
[email protected] and an advisor will be in touch with you.
The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response.
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