Head of Operations - Development Services

About the role

We are seeking a skilled and dynamic Head of Operations to lead the Development Services Operations within the Planning and Sustainable Growth Directorate. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will drive service excellence, lead operational management, and ensure the council\’s statutory responsibilities are effectively delivered.

This role is ideal for a strategic leader with experience in local government operations, business management, and process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

1. Provide strategic leadership to ensure the delivery of the Directorate’s business plan.
2. Lead and develop operational service delivery, ensuring high standards and customer satisfaction.
3. Drive innovation through digitalisation and commercial development opportunities.
4. Oversee business management functions, including procurement, contract management, and financial management.
5. Work in partnership with internal and external stakeholders to ensure statutory compliance and effective service delivery.
6. Direct policy and strategy development for service improvement and efficiency.

What We\’re Looking For

• A postgraduate qualification (Level 7) in a related discipline such as Planning, Building Control, Management, Finance, or Procurement.
• Significant experience in directing operational teams within a local government or similar environment.
• Proven experience in financial management, procurement, and contract management.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to drive performance and foster a positive culture.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience in managing large-scale projects and implementing service improvements.

Why Join Us?

• Be in charge of a high-impact service that directly benefits the community.
• Work in a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Opportunity to drive innovation and service transformation.

About You & About Us

We value our employees and are committed to ensuring that they enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding career with us. We understand that a happy and motivated workforce is essential for the success of our organisation. That is why we offer a wide range of employee benefits to enhance your work-life balance, financial wellbeing, health, and professional development.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the fantastic benefits we provide:

• Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
• 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff.
• Generous Holiday Entitlement – increasing with length of service (for non-casual roles).
• Hillingdon Sports & Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Salary Sacrifice Schemes – option to join schemes for cycle purchase, electric vehicle leasing and additional voluntary pension contributions (subject to scheme rules).
• Cycle to Work – Eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.
• Local Government Pension Scheme – access to Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
• Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
• Mental Health Support and Counselling Services – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues. Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.
• Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

At the London Borough of Hillingdon, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. This commitment means that all employees, job applicants and others who work for us will be treated fairly.

The aim is for our workforce to be representative of all sections of society and Hillingdon residents so we welcome applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds. We strive to ensure that our recruitment process is free from discrimination and bias, and we are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to applicants with disabilities.

Join us in building a workplace where everyone feels respected, able to give their best and be themselves at work, whilst contributing meaningfully to our organisation\’s success.

Recruitment Information

Hillingdon Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities that meet the essential criteria for the role and wish to be considered under this scheme. We believe in the option to choose, so candidates declaring a disability have the choice to opt in for consideration under this scheme, on a ‘per application’ basis.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Some posts are subject to The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2019 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

In addition to verifying Right to Work in the UK and a new starter health questionnaire, the post is subject to the following pre-employment screening:

• 3 years of Referencing

Please note: Priority will be given to those at risk of redundancy within Hillingdon Council. Current employees who are part of the redeployment pool must meet the essential criteria for shortlisting to be prioritised.

It may be necessary due to a high volume of applications to close this role early. We therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

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