At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of housing services and modernise systems for diverse communities.
- Company: Sandwell, a dynamic local authority with a rich cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and the chance to shape community services.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of ambitious housing transformation and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Experience in leadership, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a committed team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
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.
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 will front up a compelling vision, while keeping your teams focused, motivated, and on track.
This is a role for someone who can modify mindsets, build momentum, and create a high-performing, resident-focused culture. If you’re ready to lead one of the most ambitious housing transformations in the country, we want to hear from you.
For further information speak to our executive search partners GatenbySanderson: Rebecca Hopkin (07827 098 173) or Delicia Coutinho (07741 264 892).
Closing date: Tuesday 26th August 2025.
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Service Director of Housing employer: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough 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! Get out there and connect with people in the housing sector. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Service Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for community transformation. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your vision for improving housing services. They want to see your commitment to making a real difference in residents' lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Sandwell’s current challenges and successes. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows you’re not just interested in the job, but genuinely invested in their mission.
✨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 the exciting transformation ahead.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Director of Housing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for housing and community transformation 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 leadership skills and ability to tackle challenges. We love a good story that shows how you've made a difference in similar roles!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight how your skills align with our goals of modernising systems and improving services for residents. We’re looking for someone who gets what we’re about!
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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough 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 how you can apply that to drive forward Sandwell's ambitious plans.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to build relationships with elected Members and other stakeholders. Be ready to share specific instances where you've earned trust and collaborated effectively to achieve results.
✨Communicate Your Vision
Craft a compelling vision for the future of housing services in Sandwell. Be prepared to discuss how you would motivate your team and ensure a resident-focused culture while navigating the complexities of the role.