Head of Service - LGR Workforce Transformation

Salary: £77,833 to £85,119 per annum Location: County Hall, Preston (hybrid working) Fixed-term role until 31 st March 2028 A unique opportunity to help shape the future of local government in Lancashire. This is an exciting opportunity to take on a senior leadership role in one of Lancashire's most significant workforce transformation programmes – local government reorganisation (LGR). You will join an organisation focused on Building a Better Lancashire and Thinking Differently, as we continue to deliver high-quality, sustainable services for residents whilst preparing for the future. We are looking for an experienced senior leader to join our People Services team and lead the workforce transformation programme for LGR. Working closely with the Director of People Services, you will lead the workforce aspects of LGR, helping us shape, coordinate and deliver complex change across the organisation. You will be at the heart of a high-profile programme, providing leadership across workforce disaggregation, organisational change, workforce readiness and transition planning. You will bring People Services workstreams together, help colleagues navigate risk and uncertainty, and keep key milestones moving forward. What you will be doing: Lead the People Services contribution to the workforce elements of Local Government Reorganisation, including workforce planning, organisational design and change. Develop practical workforce frameworks and approaches that support successful delivery. Build strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, bringing people together and influencing decisions. Offer clear, trusted advice and assurance to senior leaders on workforce programme delivery. Shape and oversee effective programme governance, reporting, planning and risk management. About you You will be an experienced and credible HR leader who has successfully delivered complex workforce programmes in large organisations. Just as importantly, you will bring a collaborative approach, sound judgement and the confidence to lead through change. We would love to hear from you if you bring: Significant experience of leading large-scale transformation, organisational change or workforce programmes. Strong programme management, governance and risk management expertise. A sound understanding of workforce planning, organisational development and employment legislation. Excellent relationship-building skills, with the confidence to influence and constructively challenge at senior levels. Experience of working successfully in complex and changing environments. The ability to turn strategic ambition into practical delivery and meaningful outcomes. What we offer You will be joining us at an important and exciting point in Lancashire's history, following the recent decision on Local Government Reorganisation. This is a chance to work alongside knowledgeable and supportive colleagues, contribute to work that matters, and make a real difference for our organisation, our workforce and the communities we serve. Alongside a competitive salary and excellent benefits package, you will have the opportunity to develop your experience while helping to shape the future of local government in Lancashire. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received before the advertised closing date. About Local Government Reorganisation The Government has confirmed that local government across Lancashire will be reorganised, with the current 15 councils being replaced by four new unitary councils covering North, South, East and West Lancashire from April 2028. This is a fixed-term contract up until the commencement of the new unitary councils in April 2028. Our focus throughout this period remains on delivering excellent services to our communities. By joining us now, you will help shape the future of local government and contribute to building strong new organisations that will serve Lancashire residents for years to come. How to apply Please send us your CV and a separate personal statement showing how your experience, skills and achievements meet the requirements of the role. We expect a strong level of interest in this opportunity. To give candidates the chance to learn more about the role, we are likely to use a two-stage selection process. The first stage will be an informal conversation with shortlisted candidates to explore their experience and what they could bring to the role. Those progressing will then be invited to a formal interview and assessment. Closing Date: 28 August 2026 Interview Date: 07 September 2026 If you would like an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please contact Julie Attenborough Executive Director Senior Personal Assistant to arrange a call ( [email protected] ). We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. Job Description & Person Specification