About this job

The Role

The Assistant General Secretary (COO) provides executive leadership across UNISON’s key operational functions, including:

• ICT, digital systems and cybersecurity
• HR, workforce planning and organisational development
• Data governance and insights
• Property, facilities and health & safety
• Legal services
• Events, conferences and venues
• Membership systems and operational infrastructure

You will lead major transformation and modernisation programmes, strengthen governance and organisational performance, and champion digital innovation, culture change and continuous improvement across UNISON Centre and regions. The role supports the General Secretary, Presidential Team and NEC, leading Objective 4: Developing an efficient and effective union.

About You

We are seeking a politically aware, values-driven leader with:

• Extensive senior leadership experience in large, complex or democratic organisations
• Strong understanding of trade union governance and the public service environment
• Proven experience in organisational change, digital transformation and operational modernisation
• Broad knowledge across HR, ICT, data, legal services, property and compliance
• Excellent communication, influencing, strategic planning and programme management skills
• Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and UNISON’s democratic values

Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CIPD, digital transformation, organisational development) are desirable

How to apply

To apply for this opportunity please download and complete the General application form (under “Documents”). See job description and person specification (under “Documents”). Please note that only a completed General application form for this role will be accepted.

You will be required to submit the application form along with the following:

• 5-page statementon the challenges/opportunities facing UNISON and your approach
• 3-page statementon your skills and experience

Details are in JDPS document.

Please send a copy of the completed application form to hrrecruitment@unison.co.uk  no later 19 December 2025 at 12:00 Noon quoting ref: GS/7

Please save your documents as your full name, post, reference number

Interviews will take place on 05 & 06 January 2025

About UNISON

UNISON is the UK’s leading public services trade union, with over 1.3 million members working in the public sector, private, voluntary and community sectors and in the energy services. We employ approximately 1,200 staff, with around 370 at our national centre in Euston in central London and the remainder in our 12 regions across the UK, including Northern Ireland.

UNISON is a dynamic, progressive union, committed to equality. We encourage men and women of all ages, Black and minority ethnic groups, disabled people, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to work with us.