At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape temporary accommodation services to support residents in need.
- Company: Westminster Council, dedicated to improving lives through effective service delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a passionate team focused on creating safe and dignified living conditions.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives during their most challenging moments.
- Qualifications: Experience in homelessness or temporary accommodation services and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Temporary accommodation (TA) sits at the intersection of urgency, care and complexity, and this role plays a vital part in how Westminster supports residents at some of their most difficult moments. As demand continues to rise, this is a pivotal opportunity to shape a service that is safe, sustainable and centred on the needs of the people who rely on it.
As Head of Service – Temporary Accommodation, you will provide senior leadership for Westminster’s TA provision, overseeing emergency and longer‑term accommodation and ensuring placements are safe, suitable, compliant and delivered with dignity. You will lead the operational delivery and strategic alignment of temporary accommodation services, working closely with colleagues across Housing Solutions, Finance, Supply and wider council services to manage demand effectively and responsibly. This is a role that combines strong operational oversight with clear strategic purpose.
You will help strengthen forecasting, improve the use of data and drive better value for money, while ensuring resident experience remains front and centre. Working alongside Delivery Leads, Heads of Service and partners, you will support the ongoing redesign of homelessness services and help deliver a more coordinated, resident‑focused approach.
People leadership is at the heart of the role. You will foster a culture of high standards, accountability and learning, developing teams who are confident, compassionate and resilient. You will model inclusive leadership, embed the Council’s values and create an environment where staff feel supported to deliver consistently high‑quality services, even in high‑pressure situations.
You will also play a key role in partnership working, building strong relationships with providers, community organisations and statutory partners to improve outcomes for residents and strengthen the Council’s approach to safeguarding, compliance and service delivery.
We are looking for an experienced leader with a strong background in homelessness or temporary accommodation services, who understands the financial, operational and human challenges involved, alongside the legislative framework. You will be confident operating in a political environment, skilled at balancing competing priorities, and motivated by the opportunity to deliver meaningful improvement at scale.
Head of service – Temporary Accommodation employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Westminster is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead and innovate within the Temporary Accommodation sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, a supportive work culture, and a focus on delivering high-quality services, staff are empowered to make a real difference in the lives of residents during challenging times. The role not only provides a chance to shape vital services but also fosters collaboration with community partners, ensuring a rewarding and impactful career in a dynamic environment.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of service – Temporary Accommodation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their approach to temporary accommodation and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to leadership and operational challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of service – Temporary Accommodation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Service – Temporary Accommodation role. Highlight your relevant experience in homelessness or temporary accommodation services, and don’t forget to showcase how you align with our values at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role is all about people leadership, be sure to emphasise your experience in leading teams and fostering a culture of high standards. Share examples of how you've developed confident and resilient teams in the past, as this will resonate well with us.
Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking:We want to see your ability to think strategically about service delivery. Include examples of how you've improved operational processes or used data to drive better outcomes. This will show us that you can handle the complexities of the role effectively.
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 the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of temporary accommodation services. Brush up on current legislation, operational challenges, and best practices in homelessness support. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to improving resident experiences.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Service, your leadership approach is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you foster a culture of accountability and high standards. Share examples of how you've developed teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations, to highlight your people management skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in real-life scenarios related to temporary accommodation. Think about how you would handle conflicts, manage resources, or improve service delivery. Practising these responses can help you articulate your strategic thinking and operational oversight.
✨Build Connections
Demonstrate your ability to build partnerships by discussing previous collaborations with community organisations or statutory partners. Highlight how these relationships have led to improved outcomes for residents, showcasing your understanding of the importance of teamwork in this role.
