The role

You’ll lead our HR Systems and Data team, ensuring the Council can access the right information, at the right time, to make better decisions. This role is about making our systems reliable, easier to use and genuinely useful - from day-to-day reporting through to automation and systems improvements that save time and reduce risk. You’ll work in collaboration with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders ensuring our people data is clean, secure and well governed.

A significant part of the role will support the Southwark360 programme and the roll-out of SAP SuccessFactors, but the role is broader than project delivery. You’ll own a steady programme of improvement across all HR systems, drive analytics and MI, and help embed practical changes so managers and staff get real benefit from our systems.

Key responsibilities:

• Leading the HR Systems & Data team to deliver a modern, insight-led service.
• Supporting the implementation, optimisation, and ongoing development of SAP SuccessFactors as part of the S360 Programme.
• Managing supplier relationships and vendor contracts to ensure best value and service.
• Driving data integrity, automation and reporting to improve HR decision-making.
• Ensuring system security and compliance with GDPR and council data standards.
• Championing innovation and continuous improvement across HR technology.

What you'll bring:

You’ll be an experienced HR systems lead who combines strong technical knowledge with a strategic mindset. You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment, bringing the confidence to influence, the curiosity to innovate, and the leadership to deliver lasting impact.

You’ll have a solid understanding of HR systems and how people data can transform the way we work. Equally, you’ll be a collaborative leader with the ability to build relationships, motivate your team and work across multiple stakeholders to deliver change.

• Proven experience leading HRIS or ERP implementation, ideally SAP SuccessFactors.
• Strong track record in HR systems transformation and optimisation.
• Excellent understanding of HR data, reporting and GDPR compliance.
• Experience managing external vendors and system partners.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Inclusive leadership approach and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Experience of working in a large, complex organisation undergoing change.

About the service

At Southwark, we’re proud to be one of London’s most ambitious and forward-thinking councils, serving a diverse community and workforce of over 5,000 people.

You’ll join the HR and Organisational Development (HR&OD) team at an important time. The Southwark360 (S360) Programme is transforming how we work - bringing together HR, Finance and Payroll through the implementation of SAP SuccessFactors, a modern, cloud-based ERP platform.

This role sits at the heart of that transformation, ensuring our systems, data and analytics enable smarter decisions, better services and a more connected workforce. You’ll be part of a collaborative, inclusive and forward-thinking HR function, shaping how digital transformation improves the way we serve our people and our borough.

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Why Southwark?

Southwark Council is the largest local authority social landlord in London, managing 55,000 homes lived in by 40% of Southwark’s residents. We are home to over 18,300 businesses including iconic London venues such as The Shard, The Tate Modern and Borough Market along with conservation areas, historic buildings, social enterprises and a young, diverse, and growing population.

At Southwark we are committed to making our borough just and fair and are taking positive action to tackle inequalities.?Our residents and communities are our greatest asset and the passion we have for Southwark is shared by millions of Londoners who enjoy our outstanding cultural offer, use our hospitals, and attend our universities. Our refreshed borough plan and focus on Southwark 2030 and Southwark Stands Together, underpins all that we do.

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Additional details

This post attracts an additional financial benefits package of £2,724 per annum (pro rata April-March) which can be used towards: gym membership, health insurance, season ticket purchase, bicycle purchase, additional voluntary contribution to pension, subscriptions and professional fees, or taken as a cashable sum, which will be paid monthly.

Full time, 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Employee benefits

You’ll join a motivated, driven, and supportive team that values each of its members and strives for excellence. You’ll also be part of a successful, high-achieving development team making a real difference to the lives of residents across the borough. In return for all your hard work, skills and experience, you will receive:

• A competitive base salary (pro rata for part time staff)
• Strong supportive senior management team
• Regular one to one supervision
• Professional development & training opportunities
• Clear career development pathways
• Agile and flexible working arrangements
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Season ticket and cycle loans
• Annual Leave starting at 33 days per year, increasing to 36 (with length of service) (pro rata for part time staff)
• Wellbeing programme
• HSF Health plan and eye care scheme
• EAP employee assistance programme, confidential counselling and support
• Social clubs and staff groups

Guaranteed Interview Scheme

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people. To qualify, you'll need to meet the minimum requirements for the role, and identify with one of the below criteria: