Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services

CHERWELL DISTRICT COUNCIL; Kidlington; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Kidlington is seeking an Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services. This role involves leading environmental, housing, and community services, and requires strong leadership and transformation skills. The ideal candidate will bring strategic vision and experience in public service to improve outcomes for residents. This position offers competitive benefits including 33 days leave and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Local Government Pension Scheme

Electric Vehicle and cycle schemes

Annual flu vaccination allowance

Incremental pay awards

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in a complex organization.
• Track record of leading transformation.
• Expertise in housing and community safety.

Responsibilities

• Drive transformation and improve outcomes.
• Lead emergency planning and business continuity.
• Manage budgets with strong financial governance.

Skills

Senior-level experience

Transformational leadership

Strong commercial acumen

Political awareness

Excellent communication skills

Education

Management qualification or equivalent

Job description

Overview

The Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services will lead a broad portfolio including environmental services, housing and wellbeing, leisure, regulatory services, and community safety. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the role will be central to driving the Council\'s transformation programme, strengthening community collaboration, and championing sustainability and environmental stewardship. Provide strategic leadership across a wide range of resident-facing Neighbourhood Services.

Responsibilities

• Drive transformation and innovation to improve outcomes and experiences.
• Lead emergency planning and business continuity for the Council.
• Manage significant budgets and resources with strong financial governance.
• Champion sustainability and embed environmental responsibility.
• Represent the Council at senior levels with partners, government, and communities.
• Support the development, wellbeing, and engagement of staff across the directorate.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive when required.

Candidate profile

• Senior-level experience in a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation.
• A track record of leading transformation and delivering service improvement.
• Expertise in housing, neighbourhood services, environmental services, leisure, regulatory functions, and community safety.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic decision-making skills.
• Political awareness and the ability to work effectively with elected members.
• Inspirational leadership and excellent communication skills.
• A relevant management qualification or equivalent professional experience.

About Cherwell District Council and the role

Sellick Partnership is delighted to be working in partnership with Cherwell District Council to recruit an outstanding individual who possesses strategic insight, clear vision and an excellent reputation for the role of Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services. This is more than a leadership role - it\'s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for one of the fastest-growing and most forward-thinking districts in the UK.

Cherwell District Council

Cherwell District Council is recognised for its bold approach to growth, sustainability, and community wellbeing. With a strong track record of innovation and collaboration, the Council is now entering an exciting new chapter, and one that will shape the district for decades to come.

Strategic context and priorities

Cherwell is delivering an ambitious programme of growth and regeneration that balances strategic vision with community impact. From implementing the Cherwell Local Plan 2042, which sets out bold plans for sustainable housing, economic development and climate action, to transforming Bicester as a Garden Town and revitalising urban centres, these initiatives aim to create thriving, inclusive places where people want to live and work. You\'ll operate at the heart of a complex, high-profile agenda, influencing decisions that span housing, sustainability, and economic growth, while working collaboratively with partners across the public and private sectors to deliver outcomes that truly benefit residents and communities.

Candidate attributes and opportunity

Cherwell is therefore seeking a strategic and visionary leader with a proven track record of transformation and operational excellence across complex, multi-disciplinary services. The successful candidate will be passionate about delivering high-quality, resident-focused neighbourhood services and will bring the leadership and innovation needed to leave a lasting legacy for local communities.

What\'s on offer

This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-thinking council in a senior leadership role where your impact will be felt across the organisation and wider region. You\'ll be part of a dynamic, values-led environment that embraces innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With visibility at the highest levels and access to regional and national networks, you\'ll be supported to grow professionally while driving meaningful change for communities.

• 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution)
• Electric Vehicle and cycle to work schemes
• Annual flu vaccination and eye test allowance
• Incremental pay awards (awarded annually in April after one year of service)
• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
• Town centre offices in Banbury, close to transport and amenities