• An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced HR Policy and Reward Specialist to lead a pivotal programme of work on pay and reward strategy within a large and evolving public sector organisation.

• The role is focused on shaping a modern, equitable, and high-performing approach to reward, performance management, and benefits, while also supporting the successful implementation of a new ERP system.

• This is a strategic-level interim post that requires a mix of leadership, innovation, policy development, and stakeholder engagement expertise.

• It offers a chance to influence long-term transformation and bring meaningful impact across the organisation.

• Provide strategic leadership on the organisation’s pay and reward agenda, covering legacy schemes, business-as-usual, and future-focused reward projects.

• Lead a review of pay structures, market alignment, performance-related pay, recognition schemes, and benefits packages.

• Manage and motivate a small team to deliver high-impact outcomes on tight timelines.

• Act as lead negotiator on pay matters with recognised Trade Unions.

• Support the successful delivery and embedding of a new ERP system, ensuring alignment with reward objectives.

• Design and develop reward strategies that reflect best practice, compliance, and the organisation’s strategic direction.

• Lead on job evaluation practices using the Korn Ferry Hay methodology, while exploring alternatives to improve transparency and outcomes.

• Deliver informed proposals through data-led research, benchmarking, and consultation.

• Ensure compliance with employment law, equality legislation, and public sector reward frameworks.

• Conduct equality impact assessments and provide insight reports.

• Lead meaningful engagement with internal and external stakeholders, including staff and unions, to shape policies and foster a culture of transparency.

• Represent the HR function at programme boards and project meetings.

• Clearly communicate expectations, progress, and outcomes to stakeholders at all levels.

• Encourage and facilitate feedback from employees to inform improvements and influence strategy.

• Substantial experience in leading pay, reward, and HR policy initiatives within a large and complex organisation, preferably in the public or local government sector.

• Demonstrable knowledge and application of job evaluation frameworks (particularly Korn Ferry Hay).

• Experience in pay structure design, market benchmarking, and performance-related pay.

• Proven ability to lead negotiations with Trade Unions and manage sensitive employment issues.

• Strong understanding of employment law, equality, diversity, and inclusion in the context of reward and benefits.

• Track record of supporting or integrating HR workstreams into ERP system implementations.

• Experience in team leadership, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Excellent communication, analytical, and report-writing skills.

• A self-starter with a proactive and solution-focused approach to challenges.

• Commitment to anti-racism, equality, and inclusive practice in the workplace.

• Working pattern: Full-time, 36 hours per week (Monday to Friday).