Head of ER, People Analytics and Shared Services

Head of Employee Relations, People Analytics and Shared Services

Client Details

Page Group are delighted to be exclusively partnering with the West Midlands Combined Authority in their search for a Head of Employee Relations, People Analytics & Shared Services to join their People & Culture Directorate.

This is a key senior leadership role responsible for effective risk management across all employee relations activity, driving fair and values-led people practices, and ensuring the smooth delivery of customer-focused people services.

You'll lead the People Service Centre, shaping our approach to policy, analytics, and operations - all while ensuring compliance, transparency, and innovation in how we support our workforce.

Why Join WMCA?

At WMCA, we're transforming the West Midlands - driving economic growth, job creation, housing, and better transport links to make the region thrive. Your work will directly improve people's lives and help shape a fairer, greener, and more inclusive future.

WMCA is proud to hold 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.

Description

What You Will Be Doing

• Act as a senior member of the People & Culture leadership team, representing and promoting the WMCA people and change agendas.
• Lead all aspects of employee relations, ensuring early resolution, compliance, and cost-effective approaches.
• Design and deliver fair, accessible, and values-led policies and frameworks.
• Oversee the People Service Centre, ensuring efficient and compliant HR systems, processes, and data management.
• Drive development of people analytics and reporting to inform decision-making and manage organisational risk.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trade unions, managing negotiations and consultations.
• Coach, develop and empower the People & Culture team to deliver consistent, high-quality service.
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation in people systems, training, and processes.
• Ensure alignment between policy, systems, and culture to reinforce inclusion, fairness, and accountability.

Profile

What Is Essential

• Proven senior experience in employee relations and people operations within a complex organisation.
• Strong understanding of UK employment law, HR policy development, and ER best practice.
• Experience managing HR systems, people analytics, and shared service functions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams, manage trade union relationships, and influence at executive level.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive, collaborative leader with a values-driven approach and a commitment to inclusion and fairness.

Job Offer

What is on offer?

• 78,956 to 84,260
• 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
• The main office is based in Birmingham city centre, with flexible hybrid working available (typically 2 days in the office per week).

How to Apply

Apply via the Michael Page site with your CV and a supporting statement outlining how your skills and experience align with this role.

For informal queries about this role, please reach out to Rosie Harris at Michael Page

Applications close on Tuesday 18th November. Stage 1 interviews will be held 2nd and 3rd December and stage 2 interviews will be held Thursday 11th December and Wednesday 17th December. Early applications are encouraged, as we may close the advert once sufficient applications are received.

Reasonable Adjustments

We're committed to ensuring everyone can apply and interview fairly. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team.