Gill Ellis: A Transformational Leader in Human Resources and Organisational Development
Gill Ellis, an experienced HR Director and Head of HR Operations, is an influential figure in the field of Human Resources (HR) and Organisational Development (OD). With a career spanning across various industries such as FMCG, housing, education, and professional services, she has built a reputation for delivering strategic HR leadership and driving organisational transformation. Currently working at Lancaster University, her work has had a profound impact on HR operations, employee relations, and organisational development.
In this article, we will explore Gill Ellis’ career, expertise, educational background, and her key contributions to the field of HR and OD. Her story is one of dedication, leadership, and a passion for building resilient and forward-thinking workforces.
Gill Ellis’ Career Journey
HR Service Delivery at Lancaster University
Since December 2021, Gill Ellis has held the position of HR Service Delivery at Lancaster University, a leading institution in the United Kingdom. In this role, she oversees the delivery of HR services, including employee relations, talent management, and operational efficiency. Her work involves managing HR systems, enhancing HR policies, and ensuring that the university remains compliant with employment legislation.
Her role is particularly vital during times of change, as she plays a key role in managing organisational transformation and implementing HR strategies that improve the employee experience. Her work at Lancaster University has been instrumental in aligning HR operations with the institution’s broader objectives of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for both students and staff.
Previous Experience in HR Leadership
Before joining Lancaster University, Gill Ellis gained significant experience across a variety of sectors. She has worked as the HR Operations Manager at St Helens & Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, where she led HR initiatives that supported healthcare professionals during a period of significant change. Her expertise in employee relations and transformation made her a valuable asset to the NHS, where she was instrumental in creating a collaborative environment for both management and union representatives.
Ellis also worked as an OD Consultant with the NHS National Research Authority, providing consultancy on HR transformation and supporting the development of HR systems that enhanced operational efficiency. Her time with the NHS added a new layer to her HR expertise, as she gained first-hand experience in the public sector, which is known for its complex regulatory environment.
Other Key Roles in HR and OD
Throughout her career, Gill Ellis has worked in a range of senior HR and OD positions. Notable roles include:
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HR/OD Director at Oldham College: Here, she was responsible for implementing strategic HR policies and overseeing employee relations, compensation, and benefits. She worked closely with senior management to align HR strategies with the institution’s goals.
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Director of HR/OD at LTE Group/Novus: In this capacity, Ellis helped drive HR transformation and employee development within the educational and training sector. She led change management initiatives and supported performance improvement strategies.
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Group HR/OD Director at The Riverside Group: This role saw Ellis overseeing HR strategies for a large housing association. She was responsible for employee engagement, compensation, and implementing HR policies that supported both staff and community well-being.
Gill Ellis’ Expertise in HR and Organisational Development
A Strong Foundation in HR Strategy
Gill Ellis has a strong background in HR strategy, having developed and implemented operational HR solutions across diverse sectors. Her expertise extends to talent acquisition, leadership development, and organisational change. She is highly skilled in building HR strategies that are in line with business goals, ensuring that human resources drive business performance.
Her ability to negotiate and work closely with unions has been crucial in her career, particularly in high-stakes environments like healthcare and the public sector. Through her work, she has built a reputation as a strategic leader who can navigate the complexities of employee relations while maintaining a focus on organisational goals.
Organisational Development and Change Management
Organisational development (OD) is at the heart of Gill Ellis’ approach to HR. She has a strong track record of managing change and transformation within organisations. Whether it is through introducing new HR technologies, implementing change programmes, or improving performance through coaching, Ellis’ approach to OD is always aligned with the overall business strategy.
Her experience with HR transformation, especially in large organisations like The Riverside Group and Oldham College, has equipped her with a deep understanding of how to build cultures of continuous improvement. She has successfully led teams through periods of significant change, ensuring that employees remain engaged and productive.
Education and Professional Development
Gill Ellis has always prioritised learning and development, which is evident in her academic and professional qualifications. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources and Organisational Development from Liverpool John Moores University, which laid the foundation for her career in HR. This advanced degree has allowed her to develop a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour in the workplace and how to effectively manage talent and organisational growth.
In addition to her academic qualifications, Gill Ellis is a CIPD Level 7 professional, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in HR and organisational development. This qualification is a testament to her expertise in HR strategy, employee relations, and operational management.
Skills and Competencies
Over the course of her career, Gill Ellis has developed a broad skillset that has made her a leader in HR and OD. Her key competencies include:
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HR Strategy and Leadership: Developing and implementing HR strategies that align with business goals.
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Employee Relations and Negotiation: Expertise in managing union relationships and negotiating complex employee relations issues.
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Change Management and Transformation: Leading organisations through periods of change while maintaining focus on performance improvement.
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Coaching and Leadership Development: Supporting the development of leaders at all levels within an organisation.
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HR Systems and Policies: Implementing HR technologies that enhance organisational efficiency and compliance.
Conclusion: The Impact of Gill Ellis’ Leadership
Gill Ellis’ career in HR and organisational development has been defined by her ability to lead change, drive transformation, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. With a wealth of experience spanning multiple sectors, she has proven herself as a capable and effective HR leader who can navigate the challenges of both the private and public sectors.
Her work at Lancaster University, alongside her previous roles in the NHS, education, and housing, highlights her versatility and depth of expertise. As HR continues to evolve, professionals like Gill Ellis are at the forefront, ensuring that organisations are equipped to meet the demands of an ever-changing workplace.
Through her strategic thinking, commitment to development, and dedication to fostering positive workplace cultures, Gill Ellis has set a high standard for what HR leadership can achieve. Her work will continue to inspire and shape the future of human resources for years to come.
