Strategic Director of Community Services

ISLE OF WIGHT COUNCIL; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking a Strategic Director of Community Services to lead transformative initiatives that impact community growth and environmental sustainability. The ideal candidate will exhibit strong leadership and communication skills, with a focus on collaboration and strategic vision. This role includes managing a diverse portfolio, driving innovation, and representing the Council at various forums. The position offers the chance to significantly influence the future of community services on the island.

Qualifications

• Exceptional leadership skills with experience in local government.
• Proven ability to engage and inspire a diverse workforce.
• Strong strategic planning and transformation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a diverse portfolio including regeneration and economic development.
• Drive transformation and innovation to enhance services.
• Represent the Council at regional and national forums.

Skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Strategic vision

Innovation

Relationship building

Job description

Your vision. Our community.

At the Isle of Wight Council, we’re passionate about creating thriving communities, protecting our unique environment, and driving sustainable growth.

As a forward-thinking local authority, we put people first and champion innovation, collaboration, and excellence in everything we do.

We are now seeking a Strategic Director of Community Services to shape the future of our communities. Are you ready to join our team and lead with vision and purpose?

This is a rare opportunity to inspire change, champion sustainability and make a lasting impact on the lives of thousands

This is your chance to lead at a level where it truly matters.

As a key member of our corporate leadership team, you will:

• Lead a diverse portfolio including regeneration, economic development, environment, planning, highways, waste, commercial services, cultural heritage, leisure, coastal and public realm.
• Drive transformation and innovation, embedding customer‑centric principles and delivering services that make a real difference to residents.
• Act as an ambassador for the Island, representing us at regional and national forums and building strategic partnerships that unlock growth and opportunity.
• Shape the Council’s vision, translating political priorities into actionable strategies that deliver best value and measurable outcomes.

As our Strategic Director of Community Services, you’ll drive regeneration, transformation and economic growth, shape sustainable planning and environmental strategies, modernise services and oversee vital work that touches every part of island life, making a lasting impact for generations to come.

To truly embrace this role, you’ll need to be an exceptional leader, with superb communication skills, able to engage, inspire and influence as you build on relationships with our workforce, the public, media and partnership organisations

If you have the drive, resilience, and strategic vision to lead one of the most diverse and impactful portfolios in local government, we want to hear from you.