Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services

CHERWELL DISTRICT COUNCIL; Manchester; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in the UK is seeking an Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services to lead initiatives in environmental sustainability, community safety, and housing. The ideal candidate will possess strategic insight and experience in managing complex services while working collaboratively with public and private sectors. The role offers various employee benefits, including competitive annual leave and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)

Local Government Pension Scheme

Electric Vehicle and cycle to work schemes

Flu vaccination and eye test allowance

Incremental pay awards

Flexible/hybrid working arrangements

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation.
• A track record of leading transformation and delivering service improvement.
• Expertise in environmental services, housing, and community safety.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for Neighbourhood Services.
• Manage significant budgets and resources.
• Drive transformation and innovation.

Skills

Strategic decision-making

Transformational leadership

Communication skills

Political awareness

Commercial acumen

Education

Management qualification or equivalent experience

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.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across a wide range of resident-facing Neighbourhood Services
• 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 requirements

• 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 Sellick Partnership / Cherwell District Council

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 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. 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. 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.

In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a culture that supports your wellbeing and development, including:

• 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