Group Manager - Highway Asset Management in Hereford

This is an exciting time to join the Highways and Public Realm team at Herefordshire Council. We\’re transforming how highways and public realm services are delivered across Herefordshire, bringing them back under direct Council control for the first time in years. From June 2026, we will be working in a new way that gives us greater flexibility, more local accountability, and a sharper focus on quality and value for money. By joining us now, you will be part of a team shaping the future of essential services that residents rely on every day, from maintaining roads and green spaces to keeping our streets clean and safe.

What you will be doing

• Act as a strategic, data‑driven leader, keeping an eye on the latest developments across the industry and from government.
• Develop strategies and plans relating to the management, maintenance, operation and enhancement of our highway assets over their entire lifecycle, helping us shift from reactive repairs to proactive, planned maintenance.
• Manage a team of staff and take responsibility for the operation and development of our highway asset management and other systems.
• Contribute as a key member of the Highways and Public Realm Leadership Team.

Key qualifications

• A track record of enabling service provision and specialist technical guidance in a public service environment.
• Experience of service design and quality improvement.
• The ability to identify trends and develop new concepts.
• Experience of developing and managing networks in a partnership environment, including working knowledge of partnering/contract management.
• Experience of managing staff and budgets across different service areas.
• Evidence of changing the motivation and behaviour of people at a senior level, both internally and externally.

About Herefordshire

Herefordshire is a big hearted, welcoming and friendly county, situated in the South West Midlands bordering Wales. We have strong and independent communities and idyllic countryside, with the county lying between Worcestershire and the Malvern Hills to the east and the Brecon Beacons to the west. We embrace partnership working and are a member of the Marches Forward Partnership, which works across Herefordshire, Monmouthshire, Powys and Shropshire to secure funding for the region.

Remuneration & Benefits

• Salary range: £57,374.00 – £63,628.00 per annum.
• Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Clear career progression pathways.
• 31 days’ annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 10 days per year.
• Flexible working, including potential for job‑sharing, part‑time hours and agile working.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 access to support and counselling.
• Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
• Access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits, including savings, cashback and discounts.

Equality & Diversity

• Commitment to the Disability Confident scheme for applicants with a disability.
• Support for the Armed Forces Covenant – applicants who are an Armed Forces Veteran or Reservist.
• Commitment to supporting Herefordshire care leavers – applicants who are a Herefordshire care leaver.
• Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults is a core value, expected of all staff, visitors and volunteers.