Jargon buster
You may see the following words used across the programme.
As‑is stage
The stage where we gather and check information about how roles currently operate.
Benchmark role
A reference role used to help compare and evaluate roles consistently.
Competencies
The skills, behaviours and capabilities needed to perform a role effectively.
Consultation
A formal process of jointly discussing proposed changes with recognised trade unions before decisions are made.
Deep dive meeting
A detailed discussion with Assistant Directors to understand what teams and roles currently do. These meetings do not make decisions.
Implementation
The stage where agreed changes are introduced after design, approval and consultation.
In‑scope roles
Roles that are included in the Our Future Cumberland programme.
Job architecture
The overall structure showing how roles fit together, including levels, categories and career pathways.
Job categories
Groups of similar roles used to organise the job framework.
Job evaluation scheme (JES)
A single method used to compare roles fairly using the same criteria across the organisation.
Korn Ferry
An external consultancy supporting the council with job evaluation and organisational design work.
Pay and grading
The system that sets grades, pay ranges and progression rules for roles.
Reward / total reward
Everything that makes up an employee’s reward package, including pay, pension, leave, benefits and development opportunities. It is wider than terms and conditions.
Role profile
A summary of a role’s purpose, responsibilities and requirements. It describes the role, not the person doing it.
Target operating model
How the council is organised and how it works to deliver its priorities, including people, services and ways of working.
Terms and conditions
Employment arrangements such as working hours, leave, pay dates, allowances and other information set out in contracts of employment.
Validation
The process of checking that role information is accurate and reflects current responsibilities.
Work architecture
A way of organising roles, tasks and structures so the council’s work is clear and consistent.