Overview

Head of Organisational Design, Change and Transformation – WMCA (West Midlands Combined Authority).

Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom. The role is part of the People & Culture Services within WMCA and is supported by a hybrid working model (2 days in the office per week minimum, subject to business requirements).

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary strategic leadership across People & Culture Services, aligning the new and emerging strategy with WMCA’s purpose and strategic objectives.
• Shape and deliver system-wide transformation, organisational development, and inclusive change.
• Represent WMCA at national forums, building strategic alliances and influencing public sector innovation.
• Share collective responsibility for corporate governance, financial stewardship, and regulatory compliance.
• Act as a senior decision-maker across internal governance forums and programme boards.
• Deputise for the Chief People & Culture Officer, holding delegated authority for strategic change and transformation.
• Lead high-performing teams, champion inclusive leadership and professional excellence; drive employee engagement, EDI, and leadership development.
• Sponsor staff networks and development initiatives to foster a values-driven culture and a high-performing organisation.
• Oversee the design and implementation of organisational development, change programmes, and leadership frameworks; ensure readiness for change through adaptive practices and stakeholder engagement.
• Commission and evaluate external delivery partners to ensure quality, impact, and value.
• Act as designated budget holder; accountable for strategic budget management and value-for-money delivery.
• Support financial appraisal of structural changes and business cases aligned with governance protocols.
• Advise the Chief People & Culture Officer and Executive Board on organisational effectiveness; leverage data and behavioural insights to inform strategic decisions and drive innovation.

What You Need

• Fellow CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent) in OD, HR, or Change, with ongoing professional development in leadership and transformation.
• Significant senior leadership experience (Head of/Assistant Director/Director level) in organisational development, change, or people transformation within complex, unionised public sector environments.
• Proven success in leading cross-functional, organisation-wide change programmes and developing strategies that drive cultural and structural transformation.
• Ability to influence Boards, Executives, and external stakeholders, with political awareness and strong partnership-building skills.
• Deep knowledge of organisational design, change, and transformation practices; ability to apply OD theory to drive inclusive, evidence-led culture change.
• Values-led leadership with excellent judgement, communication, and coaching skills; ability to navigate complexity and ambiguity with clarity and purpose.

Location & How to Apply

The role is based at 16 Summer Lane. A hybrid working model is in place, with a minimum of 2 days in the office per week; additional time in the office may be required at the start due to the new structure.

How to Apply

• Create your Careers Account. Register with your name, email address, and a password.
• Build your profile by uploading your CV to populate career and education details.
• Write your Supporting Statement addressing each of the required essential criteria.
• Submit your application after a final check.

Salary, Benefits & Inclusion

Salary: WMCA advertises salary ranges; appointments typically start at the lowest salary point, with potential for progression. Exceptional cases may adjust the salary point to secure the best candidate.

• Local Government Pension Scheme
• 28 days paid annual leave (option to purchase more)
• Ethical saving options and healthcare plans
• Discounted gym membership
• EV scheme and bike purchase options (including e-bikes and adapted cycles)
• 3 paid volunteering days per year
• Interest-free financing for technology purchases
• Discounts with 2,000+ retailers

We are an inclusive employer. We welcome applicants who meet essential criteria and encourage those who may bring transferable skills or potential to apply.

Right to Work & Equality

Proof of Right to Work in the UK is required before any offer is confirmed; non-UK applicants may need visas where applicable. WMCA is an inclusive workplace and supports reasonable adjustments in recruitment processes.

Attached document: Head of Org Design, Change and Transformation JD.pdf