Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic housing initiatives and enhance community development in a vibrant area.
- Company: Dynamic council focused on affordable housing and community safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in housing and community resilience while shaping future policies.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in housing and community services.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to creating safe and inclusive communities.
The predicted salary is between 84000 - 117000 £ per year.
Reading may be a relatively small geographical area, but it packs a lot in. A vibrant economy and excellent connectivity ensure that we continue to be a place where people want to live. Responding to sustained and increasing housing demand, while maximising the supply and quality of affordable homes, is a key political priority for the Council.
We have ambitious plans already underway to increase the supply of council housing, including the delivery of 360 new homes by 2029 and up to 2,520 more over the following fifteen years. As Director, you will provide strategic leadership not only for this programme, but for a wider portfolio that sits at the heart of the Council’s response to housing need and homelessness. This includes asylum and refugee services, community safety and community development, all of which are critical to prevention, resilience and the creation of safe, inclusive and sustainable communities.
We are seeking an experienced and credible leader with the authority, drive and professional judgement to take full accountability for delivery across a complex and high‑profile portfolio. You will combine a strong grip on operational detail with the ability to maintain strategic oversight of multiple programmes, and play a leading role in shaping, sustaining and influencing effective partnerships. You will confidently engage, influence and advise Members, senior officers and external partners in a politically and publicly scrutinised environment.
In leading this work, you will move fluently between strategic thinking and the realities of delivery, ensuring that day‑to‑day activity is aligned to longer‑term priorities. Your leadership style will balance empowerment with assurance, enabling a strong team to operate with confidence while you maintain oversight through insight, challenge and an ongoing focus on learning and improvement. In doing so, you will help foster a clear sense of shared purpose and collective responsibility.
Director for Strategic Housing, Housing Needs & Communities in Reading employer: Solace
Contact Detail:
Solace Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director for Strategic Housing, Housing Needs & Communities in Reading
✨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. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for housing! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for tackling housing needs and community development. Share your ideas on how to improve affordable housing and engage with communities – it’ll set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research the council’s current housing initiatives and challenges. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around increasing housing supply and addressing homelessness. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Director for Strategic Housing, Housing Needs & Communities in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in strategic housing and community development. We want to see how your skills align with our ambitious plans and the specific needs of the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: As a Director, your leadership approach is crucial. Use your application to demonstrate how you balance empowerment with assurance, and how you've successfully led teams in complex environments before. We love to see real examples!
Highlight Your Strategic Thinking: We’re looking for someone who can think strategically while managing day-to-day operations. In your application, share instances where you’ve successfully navigated between these two aspects, ensuring alignment with long-term goals.
Engage with Us Online: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and for you to explore more about our values and vision. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Solace
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current housing landscape, especially in relation to strategic housing and community needs. Brush up on local policies, recent developments, and the Council's ambitious plans. This will show that you’re not just interested but also informed.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the role. Think about examples where you've balanced empowerment with oversight, and how you've successfully led teams through complex projects. This is your chance to demonstrate your ability to inspire and guide others.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to housing needs and community safety. Think about how you would respond to challenges like homelessness or community development. This will highlight your strategic thinking and operational detail, which are crucial for this role.
✨Build Connections
Since the role involves engaging with various stakeholders, prepare to discuss how you’ve built effective partnerships in the past. Share specific examples of how you’ve influenced and advised senior officers or external partners, showcasing your ability to navigate a politically sensitive environment.