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- Tasks: Lead and innovate neighbourhood services to enhance community wellbeing and sustainability.
- Company: Cherwell District Council, known for its bold growth and community-focused initiatives.
- Benefits: 33 days annual leave, Local Government Pension Scheme, flexible working, and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a senior leadership role with visibility and influence.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in complex organisations and expertise in neighbourhood services.
- Other info: Join a dynamic, values-led environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services
Location: Castle Quay, Banbury
Contract: Permanent
Salary/Grade: £113,435.50 – £125,379 / Grade
Closing Date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59
Sellick Partnership is delighted to be working in partnership with Cherwell District Council to recruit an outstanding individual who possesses strategic insight, clear vision and an excellent reputation for the role of Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services. This is more than a leadership role – it's an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for one of the fastest-growing and most forward-thinking districts in the UK.
Cherwell District Council is recognised for its bold approach to growth, sustainability, and community wellbeing. With a strong track record of innovation and collaboration, the Council is now entering an exciting new chapter, and one that will shape the district for decades to come.
Cherwell is delivering an ambitious programme of growth and regeneration that balances strategic vision with community impact. From implementing the Cherwell Local Plan 2042, which sets out bold plans for sustainable housing, economic development and climate action, to transforming Bicester as a Garden Town and revitalising urban centres, these initiatives aim to create thriving, inclusive places where people want to live and work. You'll operate at the heart of a complex, high-profile agenda, influencing decisions that span housing, sustainability, and economic growth, while working collaboratively with partners across the public and private sectors to deliver outcomes that truly benefit residents and communities.
Cherwell is therefore seeking a strategic and visionary leader with a proven track record of transformation and operational excellence across complex, multi-disciplinary services. The successful candidate will be passionate about delivering high-quality, resident-focused neighbourhood services and will bring the leadership and innovation needed to leave a lasting legacy for local communities.
About the role
The Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services will lead a broad portfolio including environmental services, housing and wellbeing, leisure, regulatory services, and community safety. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the role will be central to driving the Council's transformation programme, strengthening community collaboration, and championing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Key responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership across a wide range of resident-facing Neighbourhood Services.
- Drive transformation and innovation to improve outcomes and experiences.
- Lead emergency planning and business continuity for the Council.
- Manage significant budgets and resources with strong financial governance.
- Champion sustainability and embed environmental responsibility.
- Represent the Council at senior levels with partners, government, and communities.
- Support the development, wellbeing, and engagement of staff across the directorate.
- Deputise for the Chief Executive when required.
About you
We are looking for a bold, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader who brings:
- Senior-level experience in a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation.
- A track record of leading transformation and delivering service improvement.
- Expertise in housing, neighbourhood services, environmental services, leisure, regulatory functions, and community safety.
- Strong commercial acumen and strategic decision-making skills.
- Political awareness and the ability to work effectively with elected members.
- Inspirational leadership and excellent communication skills.
- A relevant management qualification or equivalent professional experience.
What's in it for you?
This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-thinking council in a senior leadership role where your impact will be felt across the organisation and wider region. You'll be part of a dynamic, values-led environment that embraces innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With visibility at the highest levels and access to regional and national networks, you'll be supported to grow professionally while driving meaningful change for communities.
In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a culture that supports your wellbeing and development, including:
- 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution).
- Electric Vehicle and cycle to work schemes.
- Annual flu vaccination and eye test allowance.
- Incremental pay awards (awarded annually in April after one year of service).
- Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
- Town centre offices in Banbury, close to transport and amenities.
How to apply
If you are an ambitious and experienced leader ready to make a real impact, I would love to hear from you. You can visit our microsite to find out more: https://cherwell-district-council.sellickpartnership.co.uk/ or for a confidential conversation about the role, contact Nikki Kinsey at Sellick Partnership.
As part of our application process, we will be requesting a CV and personal statement from each candidate. The personal statement (maximum 2,500 words) should outline your suitability for the role, including relevant skills, qualities, and experience, with reference to the criteria set out in the job description.
Closing date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59
Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances. Please note, our advertisements use years' experience, hourly rates, and salary levels purely as a guide and we assess applications based on the experience and skills evidenced on the CV. For information on how your personal details may be used by Sellick Partnership, please review our data processing notice on our website.
Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services employer: Sellick Partnership
Contact Detail:
Sellick Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, recent projects, and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services. Highlight your senior-level experience and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits perfectly with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your strategic insight and leadership skills. Be sure to reference the specific criteria mentioned in the job description, as this will help us see why you're the perfect fit for the role.
Showcase Your Vision: In your application, don’t just list your experiences—share your vision for neighbourhood services! We’re looking for someone who can drive transformation and innovation, so let us know how you plan to make an impact in this role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and you’ll find all the details you need there. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sellick Partnership
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Cherwell District Council's recent initiatives and strategic plans. Familiarise yourself with the Cherwell Local Plan 2042 and understand how your experience aligns with their goals for growth and sustainability.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how it has driven transformation in previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to inspire teams and manage complex projects, especially in community services and environmental stewardship.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling challenges in neighbourhood services, such as emergency planning or budget management. Think of real-life scenarios where you successfully navigated similar issues and be prepared to share those stories.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Demonstrate your understanding of the council's vision for community wellbeing and sustainability. Discuss how you can contribute to their ambitious programmes and how your strategic insight can help shape the future of neighbourhood services.