Interim Modernisation Programme Lead

Starfish Search is supporting a Local Authority in the North of England to appoint an Interim Pay Modernisation Programme Lead.

In this role, you will lead the delivery of the council’s pay modernisation programme, ensuring improvements are implemented effectively while maintaining strong governance, assurance and communications. Working closely with HR, Legal, Finance and senior leadership teams, you will review historical pay arrangements, manage associated risks, and support the development of robust and sustainable future pay structures.

You Will:

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of the pay modernisation programme, ensuring milestones, risks and dependencies are effectively managed.
• Provide clear programme governance, reporting and assurance to senior leaders and members.
• Work closely with HR, Legal and Finance to review historical pay arrangements and address legacy issues.
• Lead stakeholder engagement, including trade unions, ensuring transparent and credible communication throughout the programme.
• Support the development and implementation of future-facing pay and reward structures aligned to organisational priorities.

You Will Have:

• Senior-level experience leading pay modernisation or complex workforce programmes within a local authority or similarly complex organisation.
• Strong understanding of pay, reward and employee relations in a public sector context.
• Proven ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships, including effective engagement with trade unions.
• The credibility and confidence to operate in politically sensitive environments and influence at senior and executive level.
• A pragmatic, outcomes-focused approach with a strong grip on risk and delivery.

Due to the high volume of applications, we may not be able to respond to every applicant individually.