Director of Housing Needs and Support

Description

Southwark is at the heart of London’s success, known across the world for its physical landmarks but powered by its extraordinary people.

We have much to be proud of and every reason to be ambitious about the future. Our recently agreed 2030 Strategy unites partners around a vision that together, we will build a fair green and safe Southwark where everyone can live a good life as part of a strong community.

To deliver our shared vision, we will need to unleash the collective talents of residents, communities, organisations and businesses for the good of everyone who calls Southwark home.

Director of Housing Needs & Support | up to £145,671 pa +£3,503 Additional Cash Benefit

We’re seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Housing to lead a transformative approach to housing services in one of London’s most dynamic and diverse boroughs. As the Director of Housing, you will lead the strategic vision across the service, focusing on homelessness prevention, supported housing, and reducing reliance on temporary accommodation.

You will play a critical role in shaping and delivering a unified housing strategy that aligns with Southwark’s broader 2030 vision and values, while navigating the complexities of local and national housing policies. Working closely with key stakeholders, including housing associations, external agencies, and regulatory bodies, you will ensure that services are responsive, integrated, and future proofed.

Your leadership will be crucial in managing the Council’s housing services, which includes housing advice, homelessness assessments, choice-based lettings, and supported housing schemes. You will also be responsible for delivering Southwark’s Homelessness Strategy, with a focus on early intervention and reducing rough sleeping. Additionally, you will oversee significant programmes and budgets, ensuring financial efficiency while driving cultural and operational change across the department.

About You

We are looking for a strategic and experienced leader with a deep understanding of housing needs and the complexities of the public sector. You will have a proven track record of leading teams within local government or the housing sector – delivering strategic change that drives improved outcomes.

Your ability to build strong partnerships and collaborate across sectors will be key, as will your political acumen and knowledge of housing legislation and policy. You will bring a passion for public service, a commitment to reducing homelessness, and the expertise to manage large—scale programmes and budgets with a focus on efficiency and impact.

In addition to your exceptional leadership skills, you will demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to housing services, with experience in driving cultural change, improving service delivery, and championing innovation to better serve the needs of Southwark’s residents.

If you are passionate about public service, inspired by the opportunity to lead in a values-driven council, and ready to help shape the future of Southwark, we want to hear from you.

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Further info

For more information about this role, please go to https://join-southwark.co.uk/. For a confidential discussion about your suitability, please contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson: Ben Parsonage (07530 578 921), Frazer Thouard (07384 810 743), or Jude Watters (jude.watters@gatenbysanderson.com).

At Southwark, we believe in creating opportunities for everyone. As part of our ongoing commitment to building an inclusive and supportive workplace, we offer a Guaranteed Interview scheme for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. If you meet the essential criteria for the role and identify with any of the following groups, you will qualify for the Guaranteed Interview Scheme:

• Current or former member of the armed forces
• Someone who is, or has previously been in care
• A person with a disability or long-term health condition

We value the unique perspectives and experiences you bring and are dedicated to ensuring that your potential is recognised.