At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning and drive organisational change for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
- Company: Join England's largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service and make a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on excellence and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of community safety and lead impactful change in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic leadership, change management, and project delivery.
The predicted salary is between 59576 - 70089 £ per year.
Join Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service - England's largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service - and help shape the future of the service we deliver to the communities of Devon and Somerset. We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join our Service Leadership Team and be the Head of Planning and Business Change.
About the role: This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for driving organisational change, strategic planning, performance management, and continuous improvement across the Service. You will lead our Performance, Planning, Innovation and Change teams, including Business Analysis and the Portfolio Management Officer (PMO), ensuring the successful delivery of corporate plans and transformational programmes aligned to our Community Risk Management Plan and strategic priorities. You will provide expert leadership and assurance to the Executive Board, overseeing a high performing portfolio of projects and ensuring effective governance, resource management, benefits realisation, and stakeholder engagement.
Responsibilities
- Develop a culture of excellence, collaboration, and best practice across planning, performance and change functions.
- Work closely with senior leaders and stakeholders to deliver sustainable and effective organisational change and improvement.
- Drive strategic planning and align programmes with organisational priorities and long-term objectives.
- Lead and manage the Service's change portfolio, ensuring successful delivery of projects on time, within budget, and to agreed quality standards.
- Oversee PMO governance, portfolio reporting, risk management, and benefits realisation.
- Lead business analysis and continuous improvement activities to support innovation and operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Provide strategic advice on programme and project management methodologies including PRINCE2, MSP, MoP and Agile approaches; PRINCE2 Practitioner (or other level 7 equivalent related qualification) and be Agile certified.
- Managing Successful Programme (MSP) Certified and Management of Portfolios (MoP) Certified or Portfolio, Programme and Project Officer (P30) certified.
You will be a strategic and collaborative leader with significant experience in corporate planning, performance improvement, organisational change and portfolio management. You will bring strong leadership, governance, and stakeholder engagement skills, along with the ability to deliver measurable outcomes in a complex organisation. You will contribute to a positive working environment ensuring commitment to Service Values and NFCC Core Code of Ethics.
Qualifications
- Knowledge and experience of senior / strategic level management, developing and leading high performing teams including multi-disciplinary teams across delivery functions.
- Experience of managing complex strategic organisational change processes which have significant resources and impact.
- An understanding and awareness of local and national issues that affects or may influence the objectives and strategic direction of the organisation.
- High levels of interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust, confidence, credibility and integrity in the delivery of services. Able to articulate the vision for the organisation.
- High level analytical skills and the ability to think, plan and act strategically and corporately with a creative and innovative approach to problem solving, delivery of outcomes and managing organisational change.
- Extensive knowledge and proven experience of successful strategic level change and project management, within a structured Portfolio Management Officer (PMO) environment.
At Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service your work will make a real difference to the communities we serve.
Benefits
- Flexible working options.
- Generous pension scheme and annual leave.
- Ongoing professional development.
- Health and wellbeing support, including gym access, physiotherapy and counselling.
- Family friendly policies.
- Blue Light Membership and associated discounts.
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
Head of Planning and Business Change in Exeter employer: Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service
At Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in our communities. Our supportive and collaborative work culture fosters professional growth through ongoing development opportunities, while our generous benefits package, including flexible working options and health and wellbeing support, ensures a balanced and fulfilling work-life experience. Join us in shaping the future of fire and rescue services in England's largest non-metropolitan area, where your leadership will drive positive change and innovation.
Contact Details:
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning and Business Change in Exeter
✨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 Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, 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 Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service 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 Planning and Business Change in Exeter
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 Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service 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 Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, 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 Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service.
