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- Tasks: Lead Cornwall's transport operations, ensuring reliable and sustainable services for all communities.
- Company: Cornwall Council, a diverse authority committed to public service and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of transport in Cornwall and improve everyday journeys for residents.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport operations and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment focused on innovation and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Cornwall is a large, diverse and distinctive unitary authority, with responsibility for the full range of local government services across urban, rural and coastal communities. Transport plays a critical role in enabling access to education, employment, health care and opportunity, and Cornwall Council is committed to delivering transport services that are reliable, inclusive and sustainable.
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Head of Local Transport Operations to lead some of the Council’s most visible and high-impact services at a time of significant change in national transport policy and local service delivery. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for the operational delivery of Cornwall’s public transport network through Transport for Cornwall, statutory home-to-school transport, car parking operations across the authority, and the Council’s fleet and green travel agenda.
Working closely with elected Members, communities, operators and partners, you will ensure services are safe, financially sustainable and integrated, while supporting Cornwall’s wider ambitions for connectivity, economic resilience and decarbonisation. You will operate confidently within a political environment, providing clear advice and leadership while managing complex services and combined budgets in excess of £30 million.
You will bring a strong grip on operational delivery alongside the ability to think strategically, respond to national policy change and lead services through challenge and transformation. Your leadership will help shape future bus services, strengthen community transport, improve the integration of home-to-school travel with the wider network, and stabilise and modernise parking and fleet operations.
This role requires a senior leader who values collaboration and inclusion, understands the importance of place-based working, and can build strong relationships across organisations and communities. You will empower managers and teams to innovate, develop their skills and take pride in delivering services that make a real difference to people’s lives. You will also champion equality, fairness and respect, ensuring an inclusive working culture where everyone can contribute and succeed.
If you are motivated by public service, comfortable with complexity and committed to improving everyday journeys for residents, this is an opportunity to lead at scale and with purpose in one of the country’s most distinctive unitary authorities.
Head of Local Transport Operations employer: GatenbySanderson
Contact Detail:
GatenbySanderson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Local Transport Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the transport sector, especially those connected to Cornwall Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching current transport policies and challenges in Cornwall. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely invested in making a difference in local transport operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! You’ll need to demonstrate how you can lead teams through change and innovation. We want to hear about your past successes and how you plan to tackle the future of transport in Cornwall.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Local Transport Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Local Transport Operations role. Highlight your experience in transport operations and leadership, and show how your skills align with Cornwall Council's goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This is a senior role, so don’t shy away from showcasing your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects, especially in complex environments.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We want to see your passion and expertise without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply directly through our website before the closing date on Sunday 15th February. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Know Your Transport Policies
Familiarise yourself with the latest national transport policies and how they impact local operations. Be ready to discuss how you would adapt Cornwall's transport services in response to these changes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change. Highlight your experience in managing complex budgets and delivering high-impact services, as this role requires strong operational and strategic leadership.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Inclusion
Demonstrate your commitment to collaboration by sharing experiences where you've built strong relationships across organisations and communities. Discuss how you would foster an inclusive culture within your team.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a political environment. Think about potential challenges in transport operations and how you would address them while ensuring safety and sustainability.
