At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in housing and public protection services, driving performance and improvement.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to enhancing community services.
- Benefits: Generous leave, attractive pension, flexible working, and more perks.
- Other info: Dynamic role with diverse responsibilities and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications or experience in housing/public protection and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 55296 - 60286 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Housing and Public Protection Business Improvement Manager to join us! This is a full-time, permanent role with hybrid working, and a salary of £55,296 - £60,286 per annum.
The role:
- Reporting directly to the Assistant Director for Housing & Public Protection, this is a pivotal leadership role at the heart of some of our most high-profile and high-impact services.
- You’ll drive excellence across business support, performance, and continuous improvement—using your insight, creativity and data‑led innovation to transform how we deliver for residents and businesses.
- Your work will touch everything from stray dogs, licensing and business inspections to enforcement, homelessness, temporary accommodation, UK resettlement schemes, and even Royal events in Windsor.
Your role will involve:
- Lead and inspire the Business Support & Performance function—including full budget responsibility—and champion a culture of improvement and innovation.
- Occasionally deputise for the Assistant Director, providing strong leadership and direction when required.
- Turn insight into action by developing high‑quality performance dashboards, needs assessments and intelligence products that shape how we work.
- Lead in the specification and procurement of service software.
- Oversee FOIs, Member enquiries, complaints, statutory housing reviews/appeals and legal processes, ensuring learning drives better customer experience.
- Manage key contracts in line with the Council’s Constitution, ensuring value, quality, and compliance.
What we are looking for:
- A creative strategist who brings fresh ideas and the determination to turn passion into delivery.
- A Level 5/6 qualification in a relevant field (e.g. Housing Studies, Business Administration, Environmental Health) or equivalent senior experience in housing/public protection, with a proven track record in strategy, ICT/project delivery or transformation.
- Experienced leadership, including managing people and budgets to deliver high‑performing, customer‑focused services.
- Strong awareness of the housing/public protection landscape, local government policy, and governance.
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to analyse data, produce clear and compelling reports, and manage complex formal complaints—including Ombudsman cases.
Applications Close - Sunday 19th July 2026 Interviews will be held 17th & 18th August 2026
Housing and Public Protection Business Improvement Manager in Maidenhead employer: Optalis
Join us in Maidenhead as a Housing and Public Protection Business Improvement Manager, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to enhancing community services. We offer a supportive work culture that values innovation and employee growth, alongside a generous benefits package including flexible working arrangements and an attractive pension scheme. This role not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on local residents but also provides opportunities for professional development in a vibrant and engaging environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing and Public Protection Business Improvement Manager in Maidenhead
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Optalis, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Optalis and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing and Public Protection Business Improvement Manager in Maidenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Optalis and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Optalis
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Optalis, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Optalis.
