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 up to £131,351 and impactful leadership role.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead a £400m+ portfolio and drive significant change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local government and influence the future of transport services.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in highways and transport with strong programme management skills.
The predicted salary is between 131351 - 131351 £ 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.
For a confidential discussion about your suitability, or for more information, please contact our retained partners at Frazer Thouard (frazer.thouard@gatenbysanderson.com) and Delicia Coutinho (delicia.coutinho@gatenbysanderson.com).
Closing date: 11:55pm, Sunday 31st May 2026
Company: Essex County Council
Salary: Up to £131,351
Location: Essex
Director of Highways and Transport in Essex employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
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 lives of residents across Essex, this role provides not only a competitive salary but also the chance to shape the future of public services in a supportive environment. Join us in this pivotal moment of reorganisation and be part of a team that values innovation, accountability, and community connection.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
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 put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the role! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for shaping the future of Highways and Transport in Essex. Share your vision and ideas on how you can contribute to the transformation and improvement of services.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the current challenges and opportunities in Essex’s transport landscape. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the council's goals, especially around the upcoming reorganisation. This will show that you’re not just a candidate, but a strategic thinker who understands the bigger picture.
✨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 are proactive and engaged with our process. So, get your application in and let’s shape the future together!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Highways and Transport in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who will be reading your application. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the values and goals of Essex County Council. Show us that you get what this role is all about!
Be Specific and Relevant:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that relate to highways and transport. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact. We want to see how your past roles have prepared you for this significant leadership opportunity.
Show Your Leadership Style:This role is all about leading through change, so make sure to highlight your leadership style. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in complex environments. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and guide others through uncertainty.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about joining our team at Essex County Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Understand the Landscape
Before your interview, dive deep into 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 articulate your vision for the future and demonstrate your commitment to shaping the sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leadership, so be prepared to discuss your experience in managing complex teams and projects. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led through change, especially in politically sensitive environments. Highlight your ability to build relationships and engage stakeholders effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about potential challenges related to the transition to unitary authorities and how you would address them. Practising these scenarios can help you respond confidently and show your strategic thinking.
✨Align with Their Vision
Essex County Council has a bold vision for the future. Make sure you align your personal values and professional goals with their objectives. Discuss how your experience and insights can contribute to their mission of delivering safe and effective services during this transformative period.
