At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver major highway infrastructure projects that enhance community growth.
- Company: Join Solihull Council, committed to improving quality of life for residents.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive environment for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on infrastructure while collaborating with key stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in managing complex projects and stakeholder relationships.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
The role
Reporting to the Head of Highways, you will provide strategic leadership for the development and delivery of highway infrastructure projects and programmes across the borough.
You will lead and oversee
- Major highway projects and programmes.
- Highway asset management, including winter service provision.
- Bridges and structures programmes.
- Minor and major scheme design and delivery.
- Developer-led highway schemes, including S278 and S38 agreements.
- Strategic engagement with regional and national infrastructure partners.
- Governance, business case development and external funding opportunities.
- High-performing multidisciplinary teams delivering complex projects and programmes.
You will work closely with elected members, senior leaders, developers, consultants and organisations including HS2, Transport for West Midlands, National Highways and the West Midlands Combined Authority, ensuring Solihull's interests are represented and opportunities are maximised.
About you
We are looking for an experienced and dynamic leader with a strong track record of delivering complex infrastructure projects and leading services within a highways, transport, engineering or related environment.
- You will bring
- Significant experience leading the development and delivery of highway infrastructure projects and programmes.
- A proven ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and build effective partnerships across organisations and sectors.
- Experience of managing people, budgets and resources in a service or project environment.
- Strong commercial awareness, including identifying funding and income generation opportunities.
- Highly developed influencing, negotiation and communication skills.
- The ability to operate successfully within a politically sensitive environment and provide clear, balanced advice to senior stakeholders and elected members.
- Experience of delivering outcomes in complex and changing environments, balancing competing priorities and driving continuous improvement.
You will be educated to degree level in a relevant discipline, or able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge through substantial professional experience.
This is an Essential Car User post.
Applicants must hold a full driving licence and have access to a vehicle for business use.
Reasonable adjustments will be considered for disabled applicants where required
Why join Solihull?
This is a unique opportunity to help deliver infrastructure that supports growth, investment and improved quality of life for our residents, businesses and communities.
- We also offer
- Flexible and hybrid working.
- Generous annual leave with option to purchase additional days
- A flexitime scheme.
- A positive and supportive environment in which to train and continue your professional development.
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Family-friendly policies and staff benefits package.
- Additional Information
If you have a specific question regarding this post, please contact Dean Ward, Head of Service - Highways dean. ward@solihull. gov. uk
Closing date for applications 22nd November 2026
Shortlisted applicants will be asked to undertake psychometric tests as part of the selection process.
Successful applicants will then be invited to interview on 3rd, 4th or 7th December 2026.
Solihull Council has a responsibility for, and is committed to, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.
Strategic Lead - Highway Project Delivery employer: Highways Magazine
Kirklees Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a real impact on the community through your expertise in planning and highways law. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have opportunities to enhance your leadership skills while working collaboratively with dedicated professionals in a supportive culture that values sustainable decision-making and public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Lead - Highway Project Delivery
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Strategic Lead - Highway Project Delivery role you’re after at Highways Magazine.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Highways Magazine a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Highways Magazine.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Strategic Lead - Highway Project Delivery at Highways Magazine, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Lead - Highway Project Delivery
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Strategic Lead - Highway Project Delivery, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Highways Magazine a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Highways Magazine specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Highways Magazine
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Highways Magazine, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Highways Magazine want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
