At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of Highways and Transport in Essex during a major local government reform.
- Company: Essex County Council, shaping the future of public services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and impactful community engagement.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at a pivotal moment for Essex's infrastructure.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while leading significant change in local governance.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in highways and transport with strong programme management skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
Shape the future of Highways and Transport in Essex. Essex is on the Government’s Priority Programme for Local Government Reform, one of the most ambitious and complex reform programmes in the UK. At the heart of this radical transformation is a bold vision: to reshape local government and public service delivery across Greater Essex including the creation of a Mayoral Combined County Authority. By 2028 there will be the reorganisation of the current two-tier system of fifteen Councils into five new unitary councils.
This is a defining leadership opportunity to shape the future of Highways and Transport in Essex at a moment of profound change. Highways and Transport is a strategic enabler for Essex’s economy and communities, connecting people to jobs, education and essential services across a large, diverse and predominantly rural county. With one of the largest highway networks in England and responsibility for the biggest highways maintenance contract in the country, this is a nationally significant service with daily impact on residents’ lives.
The context for this appointment is clear. Essex is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation, with new unitary authorities expected to come into being from April 2028. This role sits at the heart of that transition. The incoming Director will be responsible not only for leading a high‑profile service today, but also for designing, stabilising and safely disaggregating highways and transport functions so that successor authorities inherit services that are operationally robust, legally compliant and financially sound from day one.
Over the past two years the Council has strengthened its grip on leadership, performance and programme management across the service. Relationships with corporate functions are strong, and there is a clear focus on delivery, governance and commercial discipline. This creates a robust platform, but the next phase requires an accomplished leader who can operate confidently in a fluid, politically complex environment.
You will lead a £400m+ portfolio covering highways maintenance, network development, passenger transport, bus services, sustainable transport and emerging mobility solutions. You will act as the Council’s senior professional advisor on highways and transport, oversee major procurement and mobilisation activity, and sponsor complex programmes through to delivery.
About you
This role is about people as much as infrastructure – you will need to engage and support a skilled workforce through uncertainty and work constructively with Members, partners and contractors. Crucially, you must recognise that this council, and its partners, remain accountable for delivering safe and effective services right up to the moment of transition.
We are seeking a leader who understands what they are stepping into: someone with deep highways and transport credibility, strong programme and commercial instincts, and the personal authority to lead through reorganisation at pace. You will be a relationship‑builder, a clear decision‑maker, and an experienced system leader, comfortable holding the line while shaping what comes next.
For the right individual, this is a rare opportunity to lead one of the most important services in local government, influence the future shape of public services in Essex, and position yourself for senior executive leadership in the next generation of local government.
Director of Highways and Transport in Essex employer: GatenbySanderson
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative change in Highways and Transport within a dynamic and evolving local government landscape. With a strong focus on employee development, collaborative work culture, and the chance to make a significant impact on the community, this role provides not only a competitive salary but also the chance to shape the future of public services in Essex. Join us in this pivotal moment and be part of a team that values innovation, accountability, and the well-being of its workforce.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Highways and Transport in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the highways and transport sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can offer valuable advice.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience and successes in managing complex transport projects. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to navigate political complexities—this is key for a role like Director of Highways and Transport.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in local government reform and transport solutions. Be ready to discuss how you would approach the challenges facing Essex, especially with the upcoming reorganisation. This shows you’re not just interested in the role, but also invested in the future of the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined application process that makes it easy for you to submit your interest in the Director of Highways and Transport position. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Highways and Transport in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand the role and its impact on Essex. Highlight your experience in highways and transport, and how it aligns with our vision for reshaping local government. We want to see your passion for making a difference!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can lead with authority but also connect with people. Share your leadership style and how you’ve successfully navigated complex environments in the past.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of this role. Show us how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for leading Highways and Transport in Essex.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Understand the Landscape
Before your interview, get to grips with the current state of Highways and Transport in Essex. Familiarise yourself with the ongoing Local Government Reorganisation and how it impacts service delivery. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position requires a strong leader who can navigate complex environments. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams through change or uncertainty. Highlight your ability to build relationships and engage stakeholders effectively.
✨Be Ready for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about strategic planning and programme management. Think about how you would approach the £400m+ portfolio and what innovative solutions you could bring to the table. Be prepared to discuss your vision for sustainable transport and emerging mobility solutions.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Acumen
As this role involves overseeing major procurement and mobilisation activities, be ready to discuss your experience with financial management and commercial discipline. Share specific examples of how you've ensured operational robustness and legal compliance in previous roles.
