Job Description

Senior Workforce & Organisational Development Adviser

Are you passionate about helping people grow, thrive on driving positive change, and ready to shape the future of workforce development in a bold and ambitious Council?

Gateshead Council

At Gateshead Council, we don't just talk about making a difference - we make it happen. Recognised as one of the most

entrepreneurial, forward-thinking, and ambitious Councils in the UK

, we're proud of our bold approach to improving lives and helping our communities.

Workforce & Organisational Development

Our Workforce & Organisational Development team is a collaborative, forward-thinking group that's passionate about helping people and services thrive. We work across the Council to build a culture where learning, growth, and innovation are part of everyday life.



Here's how we make a difference:


Designing inclusive, blended learning that meets real service needs and supports diverse learning styles Partnering with teams to drive change, build capability, and nurture talent at every level Using data and feedback to continuously improve our offer and demonstrate impact Embedding a learning culture where everyone feels empowered to take ownership of their personal and professional development

The role

We have an exciting opportunity to join our Workforce and Organisational Development (W&OD) team as a Senior Workforce and Organisational Development Adviser (SWODA). This is a pivotal role where you'll help shape the future of our workforce and make a meaningful impact on our people, our organisation, and the communities we serve.

In this role, you will:

Lead organisational development initiatives

within Children's Social Care (CSC) and other service areas. With major transformation programmes underway--including the Social Work Reform--you'll play a key role in supporting change and capability development. Please note that portfolios may evolve over time, offering variety and scope across the Council.

Design and deliver innovative learning and development solutions

that foster a culture of continuous improvement and empower individuals and teams to grow.

Collaborate with colleagues across the Council

to develop and implement strategic workforce plans, including succession planning, to ensure we have the right people with the right skills for the future.

Develop a modern, blended learning

offer that is inclusive, accessible, and aligned with service needs--leveraging technology to enhance learning and build capability.

W

hat are we looking for:

We're looking for someone who is passionate about learning and organisational development and who has the natural ability to navigate change, motivate, guide, and influence others toward a shared goal. If you're confident in making decisions, communicating clearly, and taking initiative, this role is for you.



We want you to have a can-do attitude and a keenness for implementing innovative solutions. You'll possess high levels of resilience, be willing to adapt, have a creative mind, and be open to collaborating with others.

Essential Criteria

Qualified or Experienced: Level 5+ qualification in L&D/OD or equivalent senior experience. Programme Leadership: Proven track record delivering impactful OD and / or L&D programmes and embedding learning cultures within a complex organisation. Change Management: Effective management and implementation of transformational organisational change initiatives. Strategic Workforce Planning: Experience shaping talent management and succession planning strategies. Influential Communicator: Skilled at engaging and influencing senior stakeholders. Data-Led Approach: Confident using people data to drive decisions and measure impact. People leader: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire high-performing teams

Salary and Benefits

We offer a great range of benefits to support you at work and beyond. Here are just some of the highlights:

Competitive salary:

46,731 - 49,764 (Pay award pending)

Pension Investment

- We don't just offer a great salary - we invest in your future too. Alongside your salary, Gateshead Council contributes significantly towards your membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme

Annual leave:

26 days + 2 fixed days (rising to 30 + 2 fixed days after 5 years), plus bank holidays

Smarter Working:

Up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs)

Mileage allowance:

For work-related travel

Holiday purchase scheme:

Option to buy up to 10 extra days off each year

Hybrid & Flexible Working

- Supporting a healthy work-life balance

Learning & Development

- Wide range of training and progression opportunities

Health & Wellbeing Support

- From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing

Cycle to Work Scheme

- Tax-efficient way to stay active and save money

VIVUP Benefits Platform

- Enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services - plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases

Equal Opportunities

Gateshead Council is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and strive to reflect the communities we serve.



If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will do our best to support you.



If you'd like a confidential chat about the role, please contact Clare Cavanagh - Senior Workforce & Organisational Development Adviser at

Clarecavanagh@gateshead.gov.uk

Apply Now

How to Apply

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we'd love to hear from you.



To apply, please submit the following documents by email to:

Nikita Snowdon, Senior W&OD Adviser

nikitasnowdon@gateshead.gov.uk

What to include in your application:

Your up-to-date CV

* + Clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description.