Head of Housing Needs

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.

Head of Housing Needs | up to £105,096 pa +£3,503 Additional Cash Benefit

As the Head of Housing Needs and Support, you will lead the charge in transforming our housing services, playing a pivotal role in leading and managing a range of critical housing services that directly impact the lives of Southwark’s residents. Overseeing a wide range of areas such as homelessness prevention, housing advice, and temporary accommodation, your key priority will be to ensure that these services are strategically aligned with both local and national policies, including compliance with the Homelessness Reduction Act and Housing Act.

Leading multi-disciplinary teams, you will foster a culture of high performance, innovation, and continuous improvement. This includes managing the procurement and contract negotiations for external services, such as temporary accommodation, and ensuring these services deliver value for money and quality in service prevision. Collaboration will be key as you will work with housing associations, government bodies, and other partners to create integrates, customer-focused housing services that address residents’ needs.

As a key leader within the Housing department, you will work closely with the Director of Housing to implement early intervention strategies, that ensure we not only meet the rising demand, but also deliver compassionate and effective support to residents at their most vulnerable moments.

About You

We are looking for a senior leader with substantial experience in housing management, particularly within a large complex organisation. You will have an in-depth knowledge of housing legislation and a track record of implementing effective housing strategies. Strong leadership skills are essential, with the ability to manage large teams, lead policy development, and handle operational challenges.

Financial acumen in addition to experience in procurement and contract management are crucial, as is the ability to deliver resident-focused services. Excellent communication and partnership building skills are required to work effectively with external organisations.

A passion for public service, combined with a commitment to social equity, is central to this role, as you will seek to inspire change, drive innovation, and champion improvement, ensuring Southwark’s housing services meet the needs of our diverse communities.

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 Duncan Collins (07586 705 475).

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.