Service Director of Housing

Service Director of Housing

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Sandwell Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the transformation of housing services and modernise systems for diverse communities.
  • Company: Sandwell, a vibrant local authority with a rich culture and strong community focus.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to make a real impact, and work in a dynamic environment.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of change and improve lives in your community.
  • Qualifications: Experience in leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement.
  • Other info: Join a committed team and shape the future of housing in Sandwell.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Enabling People, Empowering Communities, Enhancing Places. Sandwell’s story is one of potential and striving to realise the ambitions of our borough, our residents and communities. We have been through a period of significant challenge including government intervention, but through determination and our drive for excellence, we look to the future with pride and a sense of purpose. While we have come so far, there is more to do; breaking down silos, embedding our values across the organisation, and ensuring that we continue to transform to deliver the best services for our residents.

Created 50 years ago from six proud towns, each unique but united by a shared identity and rich culture, Sandwell is a place built on making things happen. It’s where industry met innovation, and where strong communities continue to shape the future. As one of the UK’s largest local authority social housing providers, with over 27,000 homes making up more than 20% of all housing in Sandwell, we are on a bold journey to transform housing services for our residents.

Our new Service Director of Housing will be at the forefront of this transformation - leading the charge to modernise systems, refresh processes and policies, and tackle a legacy of challenges head-on. We have already made significant progress – taking action to comply with the requirements of the consumer standards framework by implementing a new safety compliance software system, improving the quality of our building safety data and reviewing our 30-year HRA Business Plan. However, there is still a lot to do to deliver against our comprehensive Housing Improvement and Transformation Plan and deliver the excellence to which we aspire.

We now need a strategic and hands‑on leader to drive forward our improvement plan, to ensure that our services are safe, responsive, and future‑ready. This is a role for someone who thrives in complexity and is passionate about delivering for our diverse communities. You will lead a committed team through a period of rapid change – embedding new policies, securing vital safety data, and working closely with Members, the Regulator, and partners to deliver on our commitments, including legislative changes, high‑rise safety, and Right to Buy implications.

With strong relationships already in place, you’ll have the platform to make a real difference and join an authority that is on a steep upward trajectory. We are therefore looking for a leader who brings not just experience, but presence, clarity, and conviction. You will bring an ability to confidently engage with elected Members across all parties, earning their trust through transparency, insight, and results. A natural communicator and analytical thinker; you lead our compelling vision, while keeping your teams focused, motivated and on track.

For further information speak to our executive search partners GatenbySanderson: Duncan Collins (07586 705 475). Closing date: Friday 10th April 2026.

Service Director of Housing employer: Sandwell Council

Sandwell is an exceptional employer, dedicated to enabling people and empowering communities through its transformative housing services. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, staff are encouraged to innovate and lead change in a supportive environment. As a key player in one of the UK’s largest local authority social housing providers, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside passionate colleagues in a vibrant community.
Sandwell Council

Contact Detail:

Sandwell Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Service Director of Housing

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing sector, especially those connected to Sandwell. Attend local events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job opportunities!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching Sandwell’s recent initiatives and challenges. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about making a difference in the community. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your communication skills! As a Service Director, you’ll need to engage with various stakeholders. Role-play common interview scenarios with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence and refine your messaging.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to Sandwell’s transformation journey.

We think you need these skills to ace Service Director of Housing

Strategic Leadership
Change Management
Policy Development
Safety Compliance
Data Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Communication Skills
Analytical Thinking
Team Leadership
Project Management
Relationship Building
Problem-Solving Skills
Community Engagement
Legislative Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for transforming housing services shine through. We want to see how you connect with our mission of enabling people and empowering communities.

Be Specific: Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your strategic leadership skills. We love seeing how you've tackled challenges head-on and made a real impact in your previous roles.

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight your experience with modernising systems and policies, as well as your ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead our housing transformation.

How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Council

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you thoroughly understand Sandwell's housing services and the challenges they face. Familiarise yourself with their Housing Improvement and Transformation Plan, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.

✨Show Your Leadership Style

Prepare to articulate your leadership approach, especially in times of change. Think about examples where you've successfully led teams through complex transformations, and be ready to share how you motivate and engage your team.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

Since this role involves working closely with elected Members and partners, come prepared with insights on how you would build and maintain those relationships. Highlight your communication skills and any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to earn trust and collaborate effectively.

✨Be Solution-Oriented

Expect questions about how you would tackle specific challenges within the housing sector. Prepare some innovative solutions or strategies that could help modernise systems and improve service delivery, showing that you're proactive and forward-thinking.

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