At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development and implementation of waste procurement strategies for two councils.
- Company: Worcestershire County Council and Herefordshire Council, committed to sustainable waste management.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, flexible days, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of waste management and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Degree and significant experience in waste disposal and procurement.
Outline of Role
In 1999 Worcestershire County Council and Herefordshire Council entered into a 25 year PFI integrated waste management service contract to deliver the treatment and disposal of household waste from both Authorities. This contract was subsequently extended and is due to expire in Jan 2029. The Authorities are looking for an individual to take lead responsibility for the management, development and implementation of the procurement strategy for future waste disposal arrangements for Worcestershire County Council and Herefordshire Council. This Head of Service equivalent role is expected to initially run for 12 months, with the potential to run beyond this. Working days may vary between 3-5 days per week dependent on service need.
The key elements of the role include:
- To use expert public and waste sector knowledge to develop the Procurement Strategy and programme with partners for waste disposal arrangements post the current contract period.
- To work collaboratively with Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council and partners including Government agencies and the private sector to secure delivery of approach and new contract arrangements.
- To engage and secure resources – local authority and advisors – to deliver the programme.
- To facilitate decision making through established governance arrangements.
- To identify, develop and manage the risks associated with the procurement programme.
- To lead on the preparation of reports, policy papers and presentations. To present such reports to a range of audiences, including the Chief Executive, Council Committees, individual members and key stakeholders including the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.
- To ensure adherence to the principles of project management, whilst supporting the delivery of the agreed outcomes, within the resources available for the procurement programme.
- To ensure adherence to regulatory matters associated with waste management and procurement.
- To work imaginatively and responsively with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure delivery in accordance with agreed budgets and timescales.
- To work with and support the existing Waste Management / Service Teams.
Skills and Qualifications
- Degree
- Significant Waste Disposal knowledge and experience
- Waste Contract knowledge and experience
- Procurement knowledge and experience
- Leadership Skills – facilitating decision making, reporting, comms, relationship management, gravitas etc
- Programme / Project Management
- Strong influencing and negotiating skills.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including preparation of reports and presentations to audiences at Elected Member / Chief Executive / Director level.
- Ability to communicate highly complex issues to a non-expert audience.
- Strong analytical and problem solving skills, with the ability to challenge existing practices and identify innovative solutions.
- Management skills including the ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams to achieve high performance.
Other Information
- Hybrid working – will involve some time at offices / locations in Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
- Up to 3-5 days per week (may be some flexibility).
- Initial focus is to prepare a programme, develop options and get formal decisions made.
- Report to Head of Infrastructure Projects and Contracts (at Worcestershire County Council).
Head of Service Development (Waste Procurement ) employer: Deekay Technical Recruitment
Worcestershire County Council and Herefordshire Council offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment, making them an excellent employer for the Head of Service Development role. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, staff are encouraged to engage in meaningful projects that directly impact local communities. The hybrid working model provides flexibility, while the opportunity to work alongside diverse teams ensures a rewarding experience in public service.
Contact Details:
Deekay Technical Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service Development (Waste Procurement )
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service Development (Waste Procurement )
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Deekay Technical Recruitment
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Deekay Technical Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Deekay Technical Recruitment that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
