At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a transformative programme to reshape local government services across Hampshire and the Solent.
- Company: Join Hampshire County Council, a forward-thinking organisation committed to community improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Other info: Be part of a once-in-a-generation change programme with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities while gaining invaluable leadership experience.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in large-scale delivery and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Head of Delivery to join the Area-Wide Local Government Reorganisation Programme team. Are you looking for a challenging and diverse role working as part of a collaborative, high-profile programme, with an opportunity to make a real difference for residents and communities across Hampshire and the Solent?
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is a major government–led programme that is reshaping how local councils are structured and how public services are delivered. Across Hampshire and the Solent, 15 councils are working together to create new unitary authorities that will take responsibility for delivering local government services in the future.
The aim of LGR is to simplify local government structures, improve outcomes for residents, strengthen public services and create organisations that are financially sustainable for the future. By bringing services together within new unitary authorities, the programme seeks to improve efficiency, increase accountability and enable more integrated service delivery.
This is one of the largest and most complex transformation programmes ever undertaken in local government. It involves the redesign of services, governance arrangements, technology, finance, assets, people processes and organisational structures, whilst ensuring that critical services continue to operate safely and effectively throughout the transition.
The programme brings together colleagues from multiple councils and service areas to design and deliver the future operating arrangements needed for the new authorities. This includes planning for "Day 1" readiness, when the new organisations formally come into existence, as well as supporting longer–term transformation and service improvement.
Joining the LGR programme provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a once–in–a–generation change programme that will shape the future of local government across Hampshire and the Solent. Colleagues involved in the programme gain experience of complex transformation, large–scale programme delivery, organisational design, governance, stakeholder engagement and public sector reform, whilst helping to create the foundations of the new authorities.
The Role
You will lead delivery activity across the LGR programme, ensuring service and enabling workstreams progress in line with agreed priorities, dependencies and Day 1 requirements, and that delivery teams have the leadership, focus and intervention needed to achieve a viable transition.
What You’ll Do
- Provide strategic leadership for delivery across the area–wide programme, setting clear priorities, expectations and delivery disciplines.
- Ensure all portfolios, programmes and projects are progressing in line with central priorities, sequencing and Day 1 readiness requirements.
- Lead intervention on slippage, ambiguity, unresolved dependencies or delivery barriers that threaten programme confidence.
- Coordinate delivery across future unitaries, themes and service portfolios so that local activity remains aligned to the area–wide programme.
- Oversee portfolio leadership, programme management and project delivery capacity, ensuring accountabilities are clear and support is deployed where most needed.
- Represent delivery confidence, risks and recovery actions clearly at senior governance forums.
What We’re Looking For
- Significant experience leading large-scale delivery in complex transformation, mobilisation or implementation environments.
- Experience leading senior delivery professionals across broad portfolios or programmes.
- Strong understanding of programme integration, critical path management and dependency resolution.
- Credibility with senior stakeholders and ability to influence across organisational boundaries.
- Ability to drive pace, accountability and delivery confidence in ambiguous contexts.
- A strong, visible delivery leadership style, with excellent judgement on priorities and practical implementation.
Gain experience working on a large-scale, high-profile transformation programme. Work alongside senior leaders and subject matter experts from multiple authorities. Develop expertise in programme management, organisational change, governance and implementation. Build relationships and networks across the wider local government sector. Make a positive, lasting impact on how services are delivered to residents and communities.
Our benefits package includes details of holiday entitlement, pension scheme, flexi–time scheme, family friendly policies, interest free travel loans and discounts. We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace where people can grow and develop in their roles.
Travel Requirements
You may be required to visit other locations within Hampshire and therefore need to have the ability to travel, as necessary.
Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.
In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.
We are a Disability Confident Employer – committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.
Head of Delivery in Winchester employer: Local Government Chronicle
The Independent Schools Council is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of both staff and children. Located in the picturesque Letchworth Garden City, employees benefit from competitive pay, holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional growth while leading engaging activities that make a meaningful impact on young lives.
Contact Details:
Local Government Chronicle Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Delivery in Winchester
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Delivery in Winchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Local Government Chronicle
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Local Government Chronicle.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Local Government Chronicle that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
