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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in managing parks and open spaces for a vibrant community.
- Company: Southend on Sea City Council, dedicated to enhancing local lives.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Southend’s green spaces and community wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in parks management and a passion for sustainability.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team making a real impact in a growing city.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Your New Organisation
Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend. Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work-life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Your new role
Southend-on-Sea is an ambitious, growing city – vibrant, diverse, and proud of its stunning coastline, green spaces, and thriving communities. At the heart of this is our award-winning Parks and Open Spaces service, which frequently attract Green Flag awards. We are now looking for an exceptional leader to take this success to the next level. As Head of Parks and Open Spaces, you will have the opportunity to strategically shape service delivery for the city, influencing how green spaces are managed and enhanced through innovative approaches and future-focused planning. This is a role that goes beyond operational excellence – it’s about creating a sustainable legacy for future generations, embedding climate resilience, biodiversity, and community wellbeing at the core of everything we do. You will lead a large and diverse portfolio, including parks, allotments, cemeteries, tree management, outdoor sports facilities, and Southend’s own nursery. With responsibility for significant budgets and a workforce of around 150 FTE, you will ensure services are safe, legal, and compliant while driving continuous improvement and innovation. This is a pivotal moment for Southend. With devolution and regional collaboration shaping the future of local government, you will play a key role in forging partnerships across Essex and beyond, influencing policy and delivery models that benefit residents, business and visitors alike. Your ability to build alliances, mentor teams, and proactively engage with elected Members will be critical to success.
What you’ll need to succeed
We are looking for a progressive, visionary leader with deep expertise in parks and open spaces, strong commercial acumen, and a proven track record of delivering high-quality, customer-focused services. You will combine strategic thinking with operational credibility, and you will be passionate about sustainability, innovation, and community impact.
What you’ll get in return
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. We are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the “Why Work For Us?” tab.
What you need to do now
If you are ready to take on a role where your leadership will shape the future of one of the UK’s most exciting cities – and influence the wider regional agenda – we would love to hear from you. For an informal discussion, please contact Simon Winspear at our recruitment partners, Hays Executive, on 07525 466 357 or email simon.winspear@hays.com. If you are interested in this role, please click ‘apply online’ to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV. Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to. The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.
R2R103719 - 105854 - Head of Parks & Open Spaces in Southend-on-Sea employer: South End City Council
Contact Detail:
South End City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land R2R103719 - 105854 - Head of Parks & Open Spaces in Southend-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Southend on Sea City Council. Attend local events or join online forums where you can chat about parks and open spaces – it’s all about making those connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for sustainability and community impact during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. We want to see that fire in your belly for creating a greener future!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions by practising your responses. Think about how you’d handle challenges in managing parks and open spaces. We’re looking for strategic thinkers who can also roll up their sleeves when needed!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Southend on Sea City Council. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace R2R103719 - 105854 - Head of Parks & Open Spaces in Southend-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Parks & Open Spaces role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in parks management or community engagement.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for sustainability and community impact, and explain how your vision aligns with Southend on Sea City Council's goals.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically about parks and open spaces. Share examples of how you've successfully implemented innovative approaches in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at South End City Council
✨Know Your Green Spaces
Familiarise yourself with Southend's parks and open spaces before the interview. Understand their current status, recent developments, and any challenges they face. This will show your genuine interest and help you discuss how you can contribute to their future.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the council's vision. Think of examples where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in community-focused environments. Highlight your ability to mentor and build alliances.
✨Emphasise Sustainability and Innovation
Given the role's focus on sustainability and innovative practices, be ready to share your ideas on enhancing green spaces while embedding climate resilience. Discuss any previous initiatives you've led that align with these values.
✨Engage with Local Issues
Research current local government issues and regeneration projects in Southend. Be prepared to discuss how you would address these challenges and engage with elected Members and the community to foster collaboration and support.
