Head of Housing Needs & Support

Southwark Council is looking for a Head of Housing Needs and Support to play a crucial role in transforming housing services in one of London’s most vibrant and diverse boroughs.

The Housing Directorate is central to delivering essential services, managing 55,000 homes, including sheltered and extra care schemes, while supporting over 40,000 tenants and 15,000 leaseholders. With a diverse housing portfolio ranging from Victorian residences to 1960s tower blocks, our team is committed to maintaining high standards of housing and enhancing community wellbeing. Structured across four key divisions—Repairs & Maintenance, Landlord Services, Housing Needs & Support, and Southwark Construction—the Directorate is at the forefront of meeting the evolving demands of new regulatory frameworks and ensuring we fulfil our responsibilities as a landlord. 

As Head of Housing Needs and Support, you will manage dedicated teams focused on reducing homelessness, delivering high-quality housing advice, and improving access to support services. You will work closely with the Director of Housing Needs and Support to develop and implement strategic initiatives that align with Southwark’s broader vision of fairness, safety, and community collaboration. With homelessness on the rise and the demand for temporary accommodation increasing, your role will be pivotal in driving early interventions and prevention strategies, ensuring a compassionate and effective service for those in need. 

This is a strategic and operational leadership role that requires someone who can navigate complex policy environments and work collaboratively with internal and external partners, including housing associations and regulatory bodies. You will oversee the delivery of services that help residents access the housing support they need while ensuring compliance with legislation such as the Housing Act and the Homelessness Reduction Act. Your leadership will be vital in fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement within the team.