Project and Development Lead (Homelessness)

Venn Group; England; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional local authority in the Midlands is seeking a Project and Development Lead to innovate temporary accommodation solutions for those experiencing homelessness. This hybrid position offers a competitive daily rate and involves working closely with partners to deliver sustainable solutions. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in housing services and exceptional project management skills. Contract length is initially until July 2026, starting in January 2026.

Qualifications

• Significant experience within housing and/or homelessness services.
• Proven experience developing and delivering new services or initiatives.
• Knowledge of local authority funding mechanisms and homelessness legislation.

Responsibilities

• Work with internal teams and external partners to develop new models of temporary accommodation.
• Assess options including private sector leasing and property acquisitions.
• Make evidence-based recommendations to senior leaders.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Solution-focused approach

Job description

We are recruiting:

Job Title: Project and Development Lead (Homelessness)
Organisation: Local Authority
Rate: £500–£550 per day (Inside IR35, umbrella)
Contract Length: Initially until July 2026
Start Date: January 2026
Working Arrangement: Hybrid (Midlands)

Job Purpose

This role will accelerate the development of temporary accommodation solutions, addressing urgent gaps in provision for people experiencing homelessness, including rough sleepers and individuals with complex needs. Working closely with partners, the postholder will assess and deliver sustainable, cost-effective accommodation options.

Key Responsibilities

• Work with internal teams and external partners to develop new models of temporary accommodation
• Assess options including private sector leasing, nightly-paid accommodation, and property acquisitions
• Undertake financial modelling to understand costs, benefits, and staffing implications
• Make evidence-based recommendations to senior leaders on the most viable and sustainable solutions
• Support procurement, contracts, leases, and associated legal arrangements
• Provide regular progress updates to senior management

Person Specification

• Significant experience within housing and/or homelessness services
• Proven experience developing and delivering new services or initiatives
• Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills
• Knowledge of local authority funding mechanisms and homelessness legislation
• Proactive, solution-focused approach

If you would like to be considered for this role, or would like further information please apply today and one of the team will be in touch.