Head of Neighbourhood Services

Role: Head of Neighbourhood Services (Housing Management)
Area: The Economy
Reports to: Assistant Director of Housing Management
Hybrid - 3 days per week minimum 
£450 per day Umbrella 
Responsible for:
Neighbourhood Services North
Neighbourhood Services South
Sheltered Housing Service

Role Purpose
As Head of Neighbourhood Services, you will lead and deliver a value-for-money neighbourhood and sheltered housing service that builds safe, sustainable communities. By focusing on exceptional resident experience, you will enhance satisfaction, improve quality of life, and increase opportunities for residents.
This role requires driving a housing management strategy improvement plan, ensuring policies and processes are reviewed and optimised using data-driven insights. You will set and monitor performance targets to streamline services while maintaining statutory compliance and delivering transformation.
Budgetary responsibility is key, with a focus on managing resources effectively, advising on financial impacts, and ensuring services operate within allocated budgets. Strategic governance and operational leadership are critical to aligning the service with council manifesto commitments and strategic priorities.

Key Responsibilities
Collaborate with the Assistant Director of Housing Management to drive continuous service improvement and identify innovation and transformation opportunities.
Develop housing strategies and business plans that integrate neighbourhood management and align with corporate objectives.
Oversee sheltered housing service strategy, implementing improvement plans to meet organisational targets.
Work with project boards and senior managers to develop and adapt policies and procedures to anticipate organisational changes.
Prepare and present reports, briefings, and policy papers to various stakeholders, including cabinet members and senior leadership.
Provide direct leadership to managers, conducting appraisals, setting targets, and supporting professional development.
Ensure optimal use of staffing, financial, and other resources while maintaining adherence to council policies and legislation.
Deliver a responsive, multi-functional housing hub that enhances resident satisfaction and meets service standards.
Promote equality and diversity in service delivery and staff management, addressing inequalities proactively.
Act as a point of escalation during emergencies and deputise for the Assistant Director as needed.

Essential Qualifications and Experience
Educated to degree level or with equivalent professional experience.
Evidence of continuous professional development in management.
Proven experience in housing management within local government or a similar fast-paced environment.
Strong knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework for social landlords and housing legislation.
Experience managing budgets and delivering efficient, value-for-money services.
Demonstrated success in leading service transformation and developing multi-functional teams.
Skills and Competencies
Leadership & People Management: Inspire and develop staff to meet organisational goals, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
Strategic Thinking: Develop long-term plans aligned with corporate priorities and adapt to shifting external environments.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: Use business intelligence and benchmarking data to inform service improvements.
Communication: Deliver complex information clearly through reports and presentations tailored to various audiences.
Interpersonal Skills: Build strong relationships with stakeholders and partners, leveraging these to deliver positive resident outcomes.
Problem-Solving: Navigate complex challenges and implement effective, evidence-based solutions.
IT Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office, Power BI, and other tools for analysis and reporting.
Our Approach

We value candidates as much for their attitude as for their experience. We're looking for individuals who:
Solve complex problems and deliver real change.
Think critically, challenge norms, and innovate creatively.
Motivate teams through coaching, support, and recognition.
Exhibit emotional intelligence and adaptability in dynamic environments.
Prioritise outstanding service delivery to improve resident outcomes.

Why Join Us?
We are a forward-thinking organisation committed to building thriving communities and improving lives. Our team culture is underpinned by collaboration, innovation, and a shared drive for excellence. We are looking for leaders who will embody and enhance this ethos, ensuring we remain responsive to the needs of our residents and aligned with our organisational goals.