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- Tasks: Lead and manage Central Bedfordshire's highways network to ensure safety and resilience.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council driving significant growth and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and the chance to shape community infrastructure.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of transport and community safety.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in managing complex technical services in public or private sectors.
- Other info: Be part of exciting developments like Universal Studios and new housing projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
As part of the council’s leadership team, you will lead specialist technical services to ensure Central Bedfordshire’s 1,400km highways network is safe, resilient and fit for the future. You will be a credible highways professional, with substantial experience of managing complex technical services in a large public or private sector organisation, whether as a step up or at senior level.
Central Bedfordshire is entering a period of significant growth, with plans for 20,000 new homes, major maintenance investment, and nationally significant developments such as Universal Studios and the potential for a New Town. These pressures demand strong leadership as well as technical expertise.
You will set direction for a large, skilled service, working with contractors, partners and elected members to drive performance, value and risk management. Operating confidently in public and committee settings, you will align highways delivery with wider ambitions around safety, active travel and growth, while maintaining the core services communities rely on.
This is a visible, influential leadership role with real impact.
To arrange a confidential conversation, contact Dylan Craven or Liam Young at Tile Hill.
Closing date: Midnight, Sunday 8th of February 2026.
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Service Director - Highways in England employer: Highways Magazine
Contact Detail:
Highways Magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Director - Highways in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the highways sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's current projects and challenges. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially with all the exciting developments coming up.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! As a Service Director, you'll need to showcase your ability to lead teams and manage complex services. Think about examples from your past that highlight your skills in driving performance and managing risk.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who can make a real impact in our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Director - Highways in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your substantial experience in managing complex technical services. We want to see how your background aligns with the demands of leading a large highways network.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets right to the heart of your qualifications and vision for the role.
Align with Our Goals: Demonstrate how your leadership style and technical expertise can support Central Bedfordshire's growth plans. We’re looking for someone who can align their approach with our ambitions around safety and active travel.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Highways Magazine
✨Know Your Highways Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the specifics of Central Bedfordshire's highways network. Familiarise yourself with recent developments, maintenance strategies, and future projects like Universal Studios. This will show your genuine interest and expertise in the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles, especially in managing complex technical services. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to drive performance and manage risks effectively, as this is crucial for the Service Director position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would work with contractors, partners, and elected members. Be ready to share your strategies for collaboration and communication, as these skills are essential for aligning highways delivery with broader community goals.
✨Showcase Your Vision for Growth
With Central Bedfordshire entering a period of significant growth, articulate your vision for how the highways service can adapt and thrive. Discuss innovative ideas for active travel and safety that align with the council’s ambitions, demonstrating your forward-thinking approach.
