Vickie says: “I’m proud to champion our new values and behaviours and be a member of this team. It’s an exciting time to be in Sandwell.”
How does a normal day start?
On days when I’m travelling to Oldbury, I’m out of the house at 7am, otherwise I give myself a few extra precious minutes in bed and am usually up and logged on by 8am or thereabouts. Meetings usually get going by 8.30am or 9am.
Why did you join Sandwell Council?
I was looking for a new challenge, having worked in local government HR for over 25 years when I joined Sandwell in March 2022. It’s definitely been challenging at times – the agenda is huge and often not straightforward, but the prize is great and I’m passionate about the role HR and OD has in helping us achieve our aspirations for the council.
What is your role?
I am the Assistant Director for HR and Organisational Development. I lead the HR Service for the Council and contribute to our strategic direction as a non-Director member of Leadership Team.
What do you do in your role?
My role is incredibly varied. My service is responsible for recruitment; learning and development; payroll and pensions; HR admin and Frontline advice; workforce data and systems; employee health and safety; occupational health and wellbeing; HR policy and employee relations; casework; and supporting Directorates with change management and people management more generally through our HR Business Partners. Most of my day is spent in meetings with various people across the council and within my team, dealing with a huge range and varying complexity of issues. No two days are the same and I’m always learning.
What’s been your most memorable moment so far?
I’ve been involved in some really interesting things since joining the council. Highlights definitely include creating and launching the new values and behaviours, but also supporting the recruitment of Shokat Lal as our Chief Executive. I’m enjoying developing our People Strategy, as well as working with my team on developing our own culture and ways of working.
What would you be doing if you didn’t work here?
Probably playing my violin or feeding my appetite for travel (making up for lost time not doing this when I was younger) But I truly love working HR and OD so I don’t think I could keep away for long.
What advice would you give someone considering a career with Sandwell Council?
If you want to work somewhere full of friendly people, in an organisation that has real passion and ambition to be excellent, and with loads of opportunities for personal development in a variety of professional areas, then come to Sandwell and be part of the team.