Interim Head of Transformation

Interim Head of Transformation

Job Title: Interim Head of Transformation

Location: Hybrid Working (typically 2 days per week on-site, with flexibility for the right candidate)

Role Purpose

A public sector organisation is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Transformation to provide strategic leadership during a significant period of organisational change.

This is a critical leadership role requiring an individual who can successfully balance the management of an existing transformation programme while leading the mobilisation and implementation of a new transformation agenda. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring continuity across current transformation activities while establishing the foundations, governance, resources, and delivery framework for a new programme of change.

The role also includes leading the implementation of a planned transformation team restructure, supported by an external consultancy partner, ensuring the organisation is appropriately positioned to deliver its future transformation objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Transformation Leadership

Provide strategic leadership and direction for the organisation's transformation function.

Oversee the successful delivery of the existing transformation programme, ensuring continuity of service and achievement of agreed objectives.

Lead the mobilisation of a new transformation programme, including the development of delivery plans, governance structures, reporting frameworks, and resource requirements.

Ensure transformation initiatives align with organisational priorities and strategic objectives.

Programme Mobilisation and Delivery

Establish effective programme governance, controls, and performance management processes.

Define and implement programme structures, workstreams, and delivery methodologies.

Build momentum and stakeholder engagement across the organisation to support successful programme implementation.

Identify risks, dependencies, and opportunities, ensuring appropriate mitigation and escalation processes are in place.

Monitor programme progress and provide regular updates to senior leadership and key stakeholders.

Team Leadership and Restructure

Lead and manage the existing transformation team, providing clear direction, support, and accountability.

Work closely with external consultants supporting the transformation function review and team redesign.

Implement the outcomes of the planned team restructure, including workforce planning, role alignment, and embedding new ways of working.

Foster a high-performing, collaborative, and delivery-focused culture.

Stakeholder Management

Build strong relationships with senior leaders, programme sponsors, and operational stakeholders.

Influence and engage stakeholders at all levels to secure commitment and drive change.

Act as a trusted advisor on transformation strategy, programme delivery, and organisational change.

Essential Skills and Experience

Significant experience leading large-scale transformation programmes and organisational change initiatives.

Proven track record of mobilising and implementing complex transformation programmes from inception through to delivery.

Strong programme and portfolio management expertise, including governance, planning, risk management, and benefits realisation.

Experience leading multidisciplinary teams through periods of change and transformation.

Demonstrable experience implementing organisational restructures and embedding new operating models.

Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills.

Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to operate effectively at executive and senior management level.

Experience managing competing priorities within complex organisational environments.

Desirable Skills and Experience

Experience working within local government, the wider public sector, or similarly complex and regulated environments.

Knowledge of organisational design, workforce transformation, and service redesign methodologies.

Relevant programme or change management qualifications (e.g., MSP, PRINCE2, Agile, Change Management).

Personal Attributes

Strategic thinker with strong delivery focus.

Resilient and adaptable leader who can operate effectively in evolving environments.

Collaborative and relationship-focused approach.

Highly organised with excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Ability to drive change while maintaining operational continuity.

Working Arrangements

The organisation operates a hybrid working model. The expectation is typically two days per week on-site; however, there is flexibility for the right candidate, particularly where travel requirements need to be accommodated