Director of People Services

The role

We are seeking an exceptional Director of People Services to shape a modern, inclusive and high-performing workforce across one of the country’s largest unitary councils. This pivotal leadership role will drive the development and delivery of our People Strategy and lead wide-ranging organisational development and culture change work that will influence the entire organisation.

As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, you will play a central role in guiding the Council’s direction, ensuring we have the capability, culture and capacity to deliver outstanding services for our communities.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council employs over 9,500 staff across one of the largest geographical areas in the country. With a new operating model embedding and a refreshed senior leadership structure, the people agenda has never been more important to how this council performs.

This role will suit someone who is comfortable challenging the status quo, cutting through unnecessary complexity and helping the council find practical, enabling solutions to workforce and organisational challenges.

With over 600 services and 9,500+ staff, we deliver a range of quality services to over 360,000 households within the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Technical Interviews: 3 - 9 September 2026

Preliminary Assessment: 18 September 2026

Interview date: 9 October 2026

• High level strategic leadership skills
• A proven ability to lead service and cultural change, transformation and modernisation, bringing constructive challenge, fresh thinking and a solutions-focused approach
• An effective approach to corporate governance and risk management
• Staff discounts, generous pension and health and wellbeing schemes
• A friendly and supportive working environment
• Flexible working opportunities
• Central location with access to transport links, shops and supermarkets within walking distance
• Make a positive difference to the area and the people living here
• Relocation package opportunities

For more information please contact Tim Farr, Senior Partner and Head of Local Government Practice at Starfish