At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the strategy for sport and physical activity to boost health and community wellbeing.
- Company: Kirklees Council, a values-led organisation focused on positive change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and strong leadership support.
- Other info: Encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and offers support for applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community health and shape the future of Kirklees.
- Qualifications: Significant strategic experience in sport or related sectors and strong financial management skills.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 53460 £ per year.
Kirklees Council seeks an ambitious Strategic Lead for Sport and Physical Activity. This high-impact strategic leadership role shapes how sport and physical activity contribute to improved health, wellbeing, community cohesion and place-making across the district.
Role and Strategic Impact
- Reporting to the Culture & Visitor Economy service while working across council services to achieve sport and physical activity outcomes.
- Lead the district’s sport and physical activity strategy, driving inclusive and preventative programmes that reduce inequalities and improve wellbeing.
- Embed physical activity into everyday practice and support local growth across planning, regeneration, transport and public health priorities.
- Lead partnerships with Sport England and other stakeholders, manage relationship with Kirklees Active Leisure for governance and value for money.
- Secure external investment through major bids, business cases and performance frameworks.
About You
- Significant strategic experience in sport, physical activity, health, leisure or a related sector.
- Proven track record of developing and delivering complex strategies aligned to corporate priorities.
- Experience working across organisational boundaries and influencing senior leaders, partners and elected members.
- Strong funding, investment and financial management expertise.
- Clear commitment to inclusion, prevention and reducing inequalities.
- Experience in local government and knowledge of national policy and best practice in sport and physical activity is desirable.
Why Kirklees?
- Key role in delivering the Council Plan 2026–2029 and shaping the future of the district.
- Work on high-profile, politically important priorities with strong senior leadership support.
- Flexible, hybrid working across home, offices and communities.
- Part of a values-led organisation focused on positive change and long-term impact.
Contact Jaime Nalson – 01484 221000 – jobs@kirklees.gov.uk
Equal Opportunities: We encourage applications from people with all differing abilities. If you need any support completing an application form or other format, please contact the Recruitment Team by email or phone. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, children and young people.
Strategic Lead for Sport and Physical Activity employer: British Blind Sport
Kirklees Council is an exceptional employer, offering a strategic leadership role that directly impacts the health and wellbeing of the community. With a commitment to inclusion and reducing inequalities, employees benefit from flexible hybrid working arrangements and the opportunity to shape high-profile initiatives within a supportive, values-driven organisation. The council prioritises employee growth through collaboration with key stakeholders and provides a platform for making a meaningful difference in the district.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Lead for Sport and Physical Activity
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the sport and physical activity sector. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed!
✨Showcase Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, let your enthusiasm for sport and physical activity shine through. Share your ideas on how to improve community wellbeing and cohesion – it’ll show them you’re not just qualified, but genuinely invested in making a difference.
✨Prepare for the Interview
Do your homework on Kirklees Council and their current initiatives in sport and physical activity. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their vision. Tailoring your responses will make you stand out as a candidate who’s truly interested in the role.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about landing this strategic lead role. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Lead for Sport and Physical Activity
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role inside out. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help us see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Make it personal by tailoring your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Strategic Lead role. Use examples from your past that showcase your strategic experience in sport and physical activity.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. We want to see your passion and expertise without having to sift through fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to track your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Blind Sport
✨Know Your Strategy Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the sport and physical activity strategy for Kirklees. Familiarise yourself with how it aligns with corporate priorities and be ready to discuss your vision for its future. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also invested in the community's wellbeing.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working across various council services and with external partners. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past, especially in complex environments. Highlight your ability to influence senior leaders and build strong relationships.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since securing external investment is key, brush up on your funding and financial management skills. Be prepared to discuss previous experiences where you've developed business cases or managed budgets effectively. This will show that you can handle the financial aspects of the role.
✨Commitment to Inclusion and Wellbeing
Kirklees Council values inclusion and reducing inequalities. Think about how you've promoted these principles in your previous roles. Share specific initiatives or programmes you've led that improved community health and cohesion, demonstrating your alignment with their values.
