SHORTLISTING CRITERIA

If this sounds like the team and role for you (and both are equally important) we would love to see your CV and hear your responses to the shortlisting questions below:
1. Can you describe a challenging employee relations case you have managed, and how you approached it?
What we’re looking for: We are interested in hearing about your hands-on experience with complex employee relations matters. This could include disciplinary actions, grievance procedures, or cases involving third-party stakeholders such as trade unions or legal advisors. Please highlight your role in the process, the steps you took to resolve the issue, and the outcome. We’re particularly keen to understand your ability to navigate sensitive situations, apply HR policies effectively, and maintain fairness and compliance throughout.
2. Give an example of a time you were involved in a restructuring or change process. How did you contribute to its success?
What we’re looking for: We are looking for insight into your direct involvement in organisational change initiatives, such as restructures, TUPE transfers, or broader change management programmes. Please describe your role in planning and delivering the process, including how you assessed risks, ensured legal compliance (e.g., consultation requirements), and supported both leaders and employees through the transition. We’re particularly interested in how you applied your HR expertise to manage the human impact of change and contributed to a successful outcome.
3. Tell us about a project or initiative where you helped improve HR processes or implemented a positive change.
What we are looking for: We are interested in your ability to identify opportunities for improvement and contribute to meaningful change within HR. You might want to reflect on how the need for change was recognised, what your role was, how you engaged others, and what the outcome was. This could include anything from large-scale transformation to smaller process enhancements. We’re keen to understand why the change mattered and how it made a difference.
Your responses will be used for shortlisting, so make them count! If shortlisted, we will send interview questions in advance to help you prepare.

OUR VALUES

Our values are as important as our abilities and shape who we are as an organisation. Discover more about our values.
Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description. Our Life at Surrey handbook provides insights of the culture at Surrey and how as a valued employee, you can help shape our Council.

WHY NOW? WHY THESE ROLES?

We’re expanding our People Consultancy team in preparation for the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). These roles are being advertised now to ensure we have the right capacity and expertise in place to support this significant transition effectively.
The LGR presents a rare and exciting opportunity for HR professionals to be at the heart of a once-in-a-generation transformation.

ABOUT THE ROLES

As a HR Senior People Consultant, you will bring your expertise in handling complex employee relations casework, collective disputes, TUPE processes, employment tribunal work, and change management. You will also play a key role in coaching and mentoring our People Consultants, ensuring high standards of casework delivery.
We are looking for someone with strong technical HR knowledge, including the practical application of employment law and HR policies. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to strategic projects and work closely with Trade Union colleagues to drive improvements.
As a HR People Consultant, you will be a trusted HR adviser to managers across the council, supporting them on a range of employee relations matters, including disciplinaries, grievances, managing absence, and performance. You will also gain exposure to restructures and TUPE cases while working as part of a collaborative and supportive team.
This role is perfect for a HR professional looking to broaden their casework experience in a dynamic and varied environment. You will benefit from a dedicated mentor, ongoing learning opportunities, and the chance to be involved in impactful HR projects.
Both roles require HR professionals with experience managing employee relations casework and providing expert advice. If you are passionate about HR, enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, and want to make a difference, we encourage you to apply.