At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategy and policy development to shape Croydon's future.
- Company: Croydon Council, a dynamic and diverse local government.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to improving local outcomes.
- Why this job: Influence high-level decisions and drive change in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in strategy and policy within complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 98051 - 104131 £ per year.
Salary range: Grade CSRB £98,051- £104,131 plus fantastic benefits.
Contract: Permanent
Hours of work: 36 hours per week
Location: Croydon
Please note we may close this role early if we receive a high volume of applications.
Croydon is one of London's most diverse, ambitious and dynamic boroughs. With a renewed focus on growth, regeneration, financial sustainability and delivering excellent services, we are looking for an exceptional strategic leader to help drive the next phase of our improvement.
As Head of Strategy & Policy, you will occupy a pivotal role at the centre of the organisation, working directly with the Executive Mayor, Chief Executive, Corporate Management Team and elected members to shape policy, influence decision-making and ensure the Council is well positioned to respond to the opportunities and challenges facing local government.
This is a unique opportunity for a highly credible and politically astute leader who enjoys operating in complex environments and bringing people together behind a common purpose. You will lead the Council's corporate strategy and policy function, providing expert advice on emerging issues, supporting the delivery of the Mayor's priorities and helping to ensure the organisation remains focused on achieving better outcomes for residents.
You will work across the Council and with senior external partners to identify opportunities, influence policy development and strengthen collaboration.
What you'll bring
- We're looking for a strategic thinker and accomplished leader with a strong track record of delivering change within a complex organisation.
- Significant experience leading strategy, policy or corporate functions at a senior level.
- Strong political awareness and the ability to provide advice in a high-profile political environment.
- Experience influencing senior leaders and translating vision into delivery.
- A collaborative leadership style and the ability to build effective partnerships across organisations and sectors.
- Excellent communication, influencing and partner management skills.
- A passion for public service and improving outcomes for local communities.
Why join Croydon?
This is far more than a policy role. It is an opportunity to help shape the future direction of one of London's most important boroughs, influencing decisions at the highest level and driving change that has a tangible impact on residents, businesses and communities. Croydon has significant ambitions for growth, regeneration and inward investment, and you will play a key role in helping turn those ambitions into reality.
You’ll work alongside talented colleagues, elected members and senior leaders on some of the most pressing and exciting issues in local government today, helping to shape the future of a borough that is determined to realise its full potential.
Croydon Council’s priorities
- The Council balances its books, listens to residents, and delivers good sustainable services.
- Get a grip on the finances and make the council financially sustainable.
- Become a council which listens to, respects and works in partnership with Croydon’s diverse communities and businesses.
- Strengthen collaboration and joint working with partner organisations and the voluntary, community and faith sectors.
- Ensure good governance is embedded and adopt best practice.
- Develop our workforce to deliver in a manner that respects the diversity of our communities.
Key business plan outcomes
- Croydon is a place of opportunity for business, earning and learning.
- Children and young people in Croydon have the chance to thrive, learn and fulfil their potential.
- Croydon is a cleaner, safer and healthier place, a borough we’re proud to call home.
- People can lead healthier and independent lives for longer.
Croydon Council’s new ways of working
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Subject to business needs, we will be pleased to consider applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements and support hybrid working, whereby staff attend the workplace for part of their working week and work from home, or elsewhere, remotely for the rest of the time.
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised role.
Croydon council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check, if the role requires one.
Head of Strategy & Policy in Croydon employer: Croydon Council
Croydon Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises community engagement and professional development. As a permanent, full-time Community-Led Social Worker, you will benefit from a collaborative environment that encourages innovation in strengths-based support, while also having access to ongoing training and career advancement opportunities. Working in Croydon means being part of a vibrant community where your contributions directly impact the lives of residents and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Strategy & Policy in Croydon
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Croydon Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Croydon Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Strategy & Policy in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Croydon Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Croydon Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Croydon Council.
