At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the management and improvement of parks and green spaces in Newham.
- Company: Join the vibrant London Borough of Newham, a diverse and growing community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with exciting projects like Beckton Park Master Plan.
- Why this job: Shape the future of parks and green spaces for a thriving community.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge in parks management and experience leading teams.
The predicted salary is between 67194 - 82809 £ per year.
Newham, in the heart of East London, is one of the youngest and most diverse boroughs in the UK. 72% of our residents come from diverse ethnic communities, speaking over 220 languages, and our population of 351,000 is growing at 14% per year, the third highest rate of growth in London. There is significant growth across the borough with major regeneration programmes in Stratford, the Royal Docks, Custom House and Canning Town. Newham enjoys excellent transport links to the rest of the capital and South‑East England. Home to the Olympic Park, the Royal Docks and City Hall, the council has a mission to Build a Fairer Newham for all its residents.
About the Job
In this role you will be the council’s lead officer for Parks Services, responsible for developing and delivering service improvement strategies, plans and performance frameworks, commissioning, managing contracts and partnership arrangements. The effective and efficient management, maintenance and operation of the borough’s parks, highways, green spaces, housing grounds, allotments and trees. Collaborating with lead officers across the council and taking a lead role in ongoing partnerships with key stakeholders and service providers to fulfil the ambitions of the service and maximise sustainable delivery of the parks service for all users. Providing timely advice to the Director of Public Realm, the Senior Management Team and relevant Cabinet members. Developing and delivering the performance framework for parks and grounds maintenance services. Ensuring statutory compliance, best practice and corporate monitoring systems of these service areas are implemented and maintained. Managing revenue and capital budgets, developing savings plans in line with corporate targets, maximising funding opportunities, both internally and externally, and ensuring contractors deliver value for money. Leading major projects including the Beckton Park Master Plan and Forest Lane Park heritage project that will support the council’s vision for parks and green space.
About You
You will possess strong knowledge across parks management, arboriculture, horticulture, biodiversity and related environmental services, with an understanding of legislation, statutory duties and health & safety requirements relevant to public realm services. You will have experience leading teams, delivering complex and sensitive projects and championing the interests of Newham residents. Your excellent communication skills will be essential to your success in working as part of the council team and developing effective working relationships.
About Us
The London Borough of Newham is located only 5 miles east of London, with easy access to major transport networks. It hosts the Olympic Park, the London Stadium and a thriving arts quarter including the Theatre Royal Stratford East. The University of East London has campuses in Stratford and near the Royal Albert Dock, and Westfield Stratford City is the local shopping centre.
Head of Parks and Green Assets employer: London Borough of Newham
The London Borough of Newham is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in one of the UK's most diverse and rapidly growing areas. With a strong commitment to community engagement and sustainable development, employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth, collaboration on impactful projects, and a supportive culture that values innovation and inclusivity. Join us in our mission to Build a Fairer Newham, where your contributions will directly enhance the lives of our residents and the vitality of our green spaces.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Parks and Green Assets
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the parks and green assets sector. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, let your enthusiasm for parks management shine through. Share your ideas on how to improve green spaces and engage with the community. We want to see that you care about making a difference in Newham!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework on Newham and its parks services before any interview. Understand their current projects and challenges, and think about how your skills can help. We recommend practising common interview questions and preparing some thoughtful questions to ask them too!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Parks and Green Assets
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in parks management and environmental services. We want to see how your skills align with our mission to Build a Fairer Newham!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As the Head of Parks and Green Assets, you'll be leading teams and projects. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed complex projects in the past.
Communicate Clearly:Your communication skills are key! Ensure your application is clear and concise, showcasing your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders. We love seeing candidates who can articulate their vision effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Newham.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Newham
✨Know Your Green Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of parks management, horticulture, and biodiversity. Be ready to discuss relevant legislation and health & safety requirements, as these will be crucial in your role. Showing that you understand the intricacies of these areas will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading teams and managing complex projects, prepare examples of your past leadership experiences. Think about how you've successfully delivered sensitive projects and championed community interests. This will demonstrate your capability to lead effectively in Newham's diverse environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are a must for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might want to prepare for questions about how you would develop effective working relationships with stakeholders and service providers, as this is key to fulfilling the council’s ambitions.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with Newham's regeneration programmes and the council's mission to Build a Fairer Newham. Being able to connect your vision for parks and green spaces with the broader goals of the borough will show that you're not just focused on the role but also on the community's future.
