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- Tasks: Lead and innovate leisure services across Richmond and Wandsworth, managing contracts and diverse teams.
- Company: Join Richmond and Wandsworth Councils, dedicated to enhancing community health and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for professional growth, a collaborative culture, and impactful work in vibrant boroughs.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in community engagement and service delivery while leading a motivated team.
- Qualifications: Experience in leisure services, contract management, and community engagement is essential.
- Other info: Apply by 4th May, 2025, to be part of transformational change in public services.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are seeking an experienced, driven leader to take charge of Leisure Services and Contracts across Richmond and Wandsworth. This role offers the opportunity to shape and deliver high-profile services that contribute directly to the health and wellbeing of our communities.
As Head of Leisure & Contracts, you will lead major service areas, overseeing large contracts, income targets, and diverse teams. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Culture and Leisure, you will ensure that delivery is aligned with strategic objectives, effective management and development of leisure services, driving innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth. This portfolio includes sports and physical activity development, community programmes like Healthy Walks, and vital leisure services across both boroughs.
You will be instrumental in shaping strategic plans, managing capital improvement projects, and working closely with partners to ensure services are engaging, inclusive, and high performing. Leading a talented and motivated team, you will foster a positive culture, ensuring staff are empowered to meet objectives and deliver exceptional results for residents.
This role requires a forward-thinking, commercially astute leader with a strong background in leisure services, contract management, and community engagement. You will thrive in a fast-paced, political environment, balancing strategic priorities with operational excellence.
Why Join Us? At Richmond and Wandsworth Better Service Partnership, we are committed to innovation and delivering outstanding public services. We invest in staff development, providing pathways for growth and leadership within a collaborative and ambitious organisation.
If you are ready to lead transformational change in leisure services and want to make a lasting impact on two of London’s most vibrant boroughs, we encourage you to apply.
For further information please click Apply to visit our microsite and contact our search partners, Ben Parsonage (ben.parsonage@gatenbysanderson.com) or Alfred Leigh (alfred.leigh@gatenbysanderson.com) at GatenbySanderson.
Closing Date: 4th May, 2025
Head of Leisure & Contracts employer: Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
Contact Detail:
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Leisure & Contracts
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific leisure services and community programmes in Richmond and Wandsworth. Understanding local initiatives like Healthy Walks will help you demonstrate your commitment to the community during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the leisure sector, especially those who have experience in contract management and community engagement. Building relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends in leisure services and public health. Being knowledgeable about innovations and sustainability practices will show that you are forward-thinking and ready to drive change in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you empower teams to achieve objectives. Highlighting your experience in fostering a positive culture will resonate well with the values of Richmond and Wandsworth Councils.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Leisure & Contracts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Leisure & Contracts position. Identify key responsibilities and required skills, ensuring you can demonstrate your experience in these areas.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in leisure services, contract management, and community engagement. Use specific examples that showcase your leadership skills and achievements in similar roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for leisure services and your vision for the role. Address how your background aligns with the strategic objectives of Richmond and Wandsworth Councils, and express your enthusiasm for making a positive impact.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure clarity and professionalism in your writing, as this reflects your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Head of Leisure & Contracts. Familiarise yourself with the key areas mentioned in the job description, such as contract management, community engagement, and strategic planning.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your leadership experience, particularly in managing diverse teams and driving innovation. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive culture and empowered staff in previous roles.
✨Align with Strategic Objectives
Research Richmond and Wandsworth Councils' strategic objectives and think about how your vision for leisure services aligns with them. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure that service delivery meets these objectives.
✨Prepare for Questions on Community Impact
Expect questions about how you would engage with the community and ensure that leisure services are inclusive and high-performing. Think of specific initiatives or programmes you could implement to enhance community wellbeing.
