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- Tasks: Lead the integration of frontline services and provide strategic direction for Cardiff Council.
- Company: Join a vibrant public sector organisation with a strong commitment to community service.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and impactful work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a diverse city while shaping the future of local services.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience and understanding of unionised service delivery required.
- Other info: Confidential discussions available; apply by 9th January 2026.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to work in a vibrant and diverse city and to be part of a dynamic senior management team of a leading public sector organisation with 15,000 employees delivering over 700 individual services to over 362,000 residents. A recent independent peer review found that Cardiff Council is a ‘good and ambitious Council’ with a ‘can-do and optimistic’ culture.
Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will provide strategic leadership and direction on the integration of frontline services, including waste and Highways, provided to citizens across Cardiff, including the provision of analysis and robust advice to Cabinet Members and Councillors on the best options and methods to deliver relevant aspects of the administration’s Stronger, Fairer, Greener commitments and the Council's Corporate Plan. As a member of the Council’s Senior Management Team, you will play an integral strategic role in leading highly effective service delivery, reshaping the Council and driving performance to ensure continued focus on improvement.
You will be able to perform at your best working at a strategic level in a large organisation. The role requires an individual who has an in-depth understanding of the services detailed in the role profile and is experienced in delivering services within a unionised environment. You will be articulate, credible and able to win respect through your leadership capabilities. You will have the ability to think strategically and handle complex issues with ease. A confident communicator, you will quickly establish effective professional relationships across the Council, as well as with the workforce and Trade Unions.
This post is politically restricted in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (as amended by Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009).
For a confidential discussion, please contact Sandra Jones (07826 404091) or Gary Evans (07809 195593) of GatenbySanderson. Closing date 9th January 2026 at 11.59pm.
Director, Frontline Services in Cardiff employer: Cardiff Council
Contact Detail:
Cardiff Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Frontline Services in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector, especially those who work in frontline services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Cardiff Council's recent initiatives. Show us you’re not just familiar with the role but also passionate about their Stronger, Fairer, Greener commitments.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams and tackled complex issues. We want to hear how you’ve made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Cardiff Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Frontline Services in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Director, Frontline Services. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role is all about strategic leadership, don’t hold back on sharing examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We want to see your ability to inspire and drive performance!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us see your strengths quickly.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the services you'll be overseeing, like waste management and highways. Brush up on Cardiff Council's recent initiatives and commitments, especially the Stronger, Fairer, Greener agenda. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also invested in the community.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in complex environments, particularly in unionised settings. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you can inspire respect and collaboration among diverse groups, including trade unions and council members.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a confident communicator, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Think about how you can establish effective professional relationships quickly, and be prepared to demonstrate your ability to handle complex issues with ease during the interview.
✨Engage with the Culture
Familiarise yourself with Cardiff Council's culture, which is described as 'can-do and optimistic'. During the interview, reflect this attitude in your responses and show how you can contribute positively to the team dynamic and overall mission of the council.
