Welcome to Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen

Thank you for your interest in the position of Head of Neighbourhood Operations across both Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen County Borough Councils.

As the Joint Director of Neighbourhoods and Environment for Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council and Torfaen County Borough Council, I am delighted to share what I believe is one of the most exciting leadership opportunities in local government today.

This role is much more than a traditional Head of Service position. It is an opportunity to shape, influence and lead the operational services that make a real difference to our residents every single day. The post is responsible for leading key operational services across both authorities, including Streetscene, Playground Inspection, Parks and Open Spaces, Cleansing, Cemeteries and Environmental Cleanliness services.

We are proud of the progress that has already been made through our collaborative approach to service delivery. However, we are ambitious for the future and recognise that local government continues to face significant challenges and opportunities. Communities expect excellent services, financial pressures require innovation and efficiency, and we must continue to modernise the way we work. We are therefore looking for an exceptional leader who can inspire people, challenge conventional thinking and drive continuous improvement whilst maintaining a focus on delivering for our residents.

The successful candidate will join a forward-thinking senior leadership team and will play a key role in shaping the future of frontline operations across both councils. You will be responsible for leading large and diverse teams, managing resources, supporting service transformation and ensuring that our services remain safe, efficient, customer-focused and financially sustainable. You will also work closely with elected members, trade unions, partners and communities to build confidence and deliver meaningful outcomes.

I am looking for someone who is passionate about public service and who understands the importance of visible and authentic leadership. You will be a leader who can bring people together around a common purpose, motivate teams through change, and create a culture where innovation, accountability and collaboration thrive. You will be comfortable operating within a complex environment where balancing local priorities with strategic ambitions is essential.

You will help shape how operational frontline services are delivered across two councils, champion new approaches to service improvement and play a pivotal role in ensuring our residents continue to receive the high-quality services they deserve. You will have the opportunity to influence strategic direction whilst remaining closely connected to the operational services that are at the heart of our communities.

Most importantly, I am looking for a leader who shares our values, someone who believes in the power of public service, values the contribution of others, champions equality and inclusion, and is committed to achieving the very best outcomes for our residents, employees and communities.

If you are energised by the prospect of leading high-profile services, shaping organisational transformation and making a visible difference across Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen, I would be delighted to receive your application.

I look forward to learning more about what you could bring to this exciting role.

Yours sincerely

Mark Thomas
Joint Director of Neighbourhoods and Environment
Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council & Torfaen County Borough Council