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- Tasks: Lead and transform key neighbourhood services in a progressive local government.
- Company: Dynamic Borough Council focused on community and operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Drive service transformation and improve local community services while leading a diverse team.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience with significant management and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced operational leader looking to take the next step in a strategic, high-profile local government environment? We're recruiting for a Head of Neighbourhood Services to lead key frontline services across Waste Operations, Waste Performance & Contracts and Fleet Management within a progressive Borough Council environment. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior leader to drive service transformation, operational excellence and continuous improvement while contributing to the wider strategic priorities of the Council and local community.
The Role
- Lead and manage a diverse portfolio of operational services, ensuring high-quality and cost-effective service delivery.
- Develop and implement departmental business plans aligned to corporate and community priorities.
- Drive performance management and continuous improvement initiatives across the service area.
- Lead strategic planning, service transformation and operational development projects.
- Manage budgets, resources, contracts and workforce planning to ensure value for money and operational efficiency.
- Build strong working relationships with elected members, contractors, stakeholders and partner organisations.
- Support the delivery of emergency planning, risk management and business continuity arrangements.
- Provide strategic advice and reports to senior leadership, committees and Council meetings.
- Foster a positive, high-performing culture focused on collaboration, innovation and customer service.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant legislative, governance and health & safety requirements.
You will play a key leadership role within the organisation, supporting the delivery of strategic objectives while ensuring operational services continue to meet the needs of residents and stakeholders.
Essential Criteria
- A degree or postgraduate qualification (or equivalent relevant experience).
- Significant management experience within a large operational delivery environment.
- Senior leadership experience involving strategic planning, service delivery and organisational change.
- Experience managing budgets, people, contracts and operational resources.
- Experience working with a wide range of stakeholders, including elected members and external agencies.
- Strong understanding of local government operations and the wider political environment.
- Excellent leadership, communication and performance management skills.
- Experience driving service improvement and delivering change effectively.
- A full UK driving licence or access to suitable transport.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience within waste management, fleet services, environmental services or local government operations.
- Experience leading large-scale transformational or service integration programmes.
To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity, please send an up-to-date CV via the link provided or contact Zachery Downes for a confidential discussion. This position may be subject to appropriate pre-employment checks. We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you. If this role isn't quite right for you, we may have other senior management and operational leadership opportunities available - get in touch to find out more.
Head of Neighbourhood Services in Ballymena employer: MCS Group
Contact Detail:
MCS Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Neighbourhood Services in Ballymena
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in local government or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's current projects and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their strategic priorities. We want you to shine as the perfect fit for the Head of Neighbourhood Services role!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've driven service improvement and managed teams effectively. Highlighting your past successes will help us see you as a strong candidate for leading operational services.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who can contribute to our community-focused goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Neighbourhood Services in Ballymena
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant operational management roles you've held. We want to see how you can drive service transformation and operational excellence!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Neighbourhood Services role. Share specific examples of your achievements in managing budgets, resources, and leading teams. Let us know how you can contribute to our strategic priorities.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills: In local government, building relationships is key. Make sure to mention your experience working with elected members, contractors, and other stakeholders. We want to see how you can foster collaboration and drive performance across services.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at MCS Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in local government operations and the specific services you'll be managing. Brush up on recent developments in waste management and fleet services, as well as any relevant legislation. This will show your potential employer that you're not just a leader, but also an informed one.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change or transformation. Think about specific projects where you drove performance improvements or managed budgets effectively. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with fostering a positive culture.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your experience in building strong relationships with stakeholders, elected members, and contractors. Prepare to discuss how you’ve navigated complex political environments and collaborated with various parties to achieve common goals. This is crucial for a role that involves significant community interaction.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the Council's strategic priorities, challenges they face in neighbourhood services, or how they measure success in service delivery. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.