Job Description

Job Introduction

Are you passionate about unlocking potential and driving organisational growth through professions and capability development?



After a change in our structure to align to a forward-thinking Target Operating Model, we now have a new role available for a Workforce Development Partner, focussing on Professions. This role will lead the design and delivery of Capabilities and Competencies by closing skills gaps, and support career progression across the organisation. Leading on the establishment of the WMCA- Academy model and Capability framework, you will be fundamental in inspiring our workforce to learn and grow.


You'll work closely with leaders and teams to foster a culture of continuous learning, shape strategic training initiatives, and ensure development activity aligns with organisational goals and industry standards. If you're ready to make a real difference and help shape the future of our workforce, we'd love to hear from you.

What you will be doing.

Lead the development and implementation of targeted training initiatives, including a WMCA - Academy, to address skills gaps and build organisational capability aligned with strategic goals. Establish and maintain capability frameworks for performance management, succession planning, and competency development, with a focus on leadership pathways for public sector professionals. Design and deliver a digital learning strategy that supports both organisational objectives and technical skills development. Conduct regular skills assessments and report on development metrics to inform strategic planning and workforce capability. Collaborate across departments, particularly HR/OD, to share best practices and promote a culture of continuous learning, inclusion, and innovation. Provide guidance and support to employees, creating clear career pathways and ensuring compliance with industry standards in areas such as HR, Audit, and Legal. Manage and develop team members, fostering a safe and creative environment that supports professional growth and innovation. Represent the Head of Workforce Development and Professions when required, and present papers to secure decisions through governance structures. Oversee the execution of skills programmes and lead the creation of an annual skills plan, ensuring responsiveness to organisational and government priorities. Monitor and evaluate training effectiveness, adjust strategies based on feedback, and report progress to stakeholders. Develop digital solutions to streamline processes and ensure all programmes comply with organisational policies and standards. Manage budgets for development initiatives, ensuring cost-effectiveness, value for money, and adherence to governance processes. Continuously seek innovative approaches to skills and talent development, maintaining professional standards and current best practices.

What's essential.

Qualification to at least level 5 in an OD/HR related field or relevant equivalent experience. Human Resources and/ or Organisational Development experience with a focus on skills development. Experience in programme management and implementation of training and development initiatives. Proven track record of working collaboratively across departments and with senior leadership. Extensive knowledge and experience of the full learning cycle. Ability to conduct training needs analysis and link needs to business objectives at organisational, team and individual level. Analytical Skills, a strong ability to undertake research and analyse data and metrics to inform decision-making and present written information. Communication skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills. Interpersonal skills, ability to build strong relationships and work effectively with diverse teams. Strong stakeholder engagement and management skills, with ability to influence effectively. Ability to work well under pressure, managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Strong leadership skills, and mentoring abilities. Knowledge of undertaking capability assessments within organisations to address skills gaps and shortages. Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with industry trends and best practice.

How to apply.

Applying for a role with WMCA is straight forward. Follow these steps to get started.

Create your Careers Account.

Register with your name, email address, and a password.

Build your Profile.

Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.

Write your Supporting Statement.

Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.

Submit your application.

Do one final check and once complete, click submit.

Anonymised Applications.

Your uploaded CV won't be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section. it's your chance to showcase your skills and experience.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We cannot stop anyone from using AI help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application.


Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting. For help on how to write a supporting statement, please visit the FAQs section of our careers site.

Reasonable adjustments.

If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team (careers@wmca.org.uk).

Salary and benefits.

We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.


We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Local Government Pension Scheme (

one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK

).

28 days

paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more)

EV car benefit scheme

Ethical

saving options

and

healthcare plans.

Discounted

gym membership, will writing

and

mortgage advice.

An option to

buy a bicycle

, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.

3 days

of paid leave each year to

volunteer

.

Interest free financing

through SmartTech to buy the latest technology

Discounted shopping

with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.


We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives, every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We're a Disability Confident Employer with 'Leader' status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.


We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.


We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.


Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).