Role: Chief People Officer

Closing Date: noon, Monday 20^th May 2019

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is an innovative and creative executive agency of the Ministry of Defence (MOD) responsible for designing, developing and applying the very latest in science and technology to protect the UK. Much of this state-of-the-art research, advice and analysis is operationally critical at home and overseas with the potential to save many lives. With a yearly turnover of £600m and employing some 4,000 people Dstl is a large, specialist, multi-site operational delivery environment. A diverse and inclusive workplace environment exists where new ideas and methods of working are welcomed in a collaborative and supporting setting where new ideas and methods of working are encouraged.

The Chief People Officer, reporting to the Chief Executive, is the HR Professional Leader for Dstl with a key role in MOD HR and the wider Civil Service HR Function. As a member of both the Executive Management Committee and the Civil Service HR team, the role leads in prioritising strategic direction, stakeholder relationships and organisational engagement. A key strategic priority is to strengthen the existing capabilities of the Senior Leadership Team and broader management team. You will be working closely with the Board to scope out requirements, source and engage with external suppliers to deliver this programme. You will identify emerging talent and ensure the right Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) is available for Dstl’s future; working in partnership with career ambassadors. You will further develop the organisational culture to promote empowerment, proactivity and recognition. Uniquely this role has responsibility for overseeing the Communications team who enable effective management of external and internal brand and reputation through a compelling and consistent corporate story.

We are looking for an inspirational HR leader with a generalist skillset who can demonstrate a track record of developing senior leaders and management teams through engagement with strategic partners. Additionally you will have experience of creating pipelines for emerging talent which is fundamental to the future success of Dstl. You will be comfortable working with Board members and have a track record of successful engagement and partnering at this level.  You adopt an evidence based approach and will be comfortable working in an environment that encourages discussion and new ideas. A background from a large, complex organisation focused on the Technology, Industrial, Energy or Manufacturing sectors would be advantageous.

The Ministry of Defence is committed to recruiting and retaining the best possible people from across the country, regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, working pattern, caring responsibilities, sexual orientation or, for Civil Servants, whether they are disabled.