Service Director Infrastructure and Transport
Let’s start with the challenges. Like every local authority, Somerset Council is facing a tough financial situation. But we also have significant opportunities that others don’t – for example Gravity, the UK’s leading strategic smart campus, anchored by the 40Gwh Agratas Gigafactory; Europe’s largest construction site at Hinkley Point C; new rail services promoting connectivity across the county; plus of course the invaluable experience, expertise, assets, and networks of our five predecessor councils. As a new organisation, the Council has a unique culture and sense of possibility, and you’ll relish being part of our inspiring shared vision for Somerset.
This role will be at the heart of accelerating our progress towards building a flourishing and financially sustainable place that people choose. Your overall responsibility will be to catalyse world-class development across Somerset. This includes ensuring our transport infrastructure works for residents and businesses; that we have strategic and operational plans in place to meet future needs and enable growth; and that your portfolio makes its optimum contribution to the overall development of the county.
We’re looking for highly experienced, innovative and resilient professionals who are ready to test themselves on the biggest stage. Candidates must be highly experienced in all relevant professional areas, with an excellent knowledge of regulations/legislation, best practice and emerging trends within the discipline. You must have led a large, complex directorate, probably in the public sector, and will bring a nuanced and engaging approach to working with partners and stakeholders. High levels of commercial acumen are essential, and you’ll bring an impressive analytical and reflective intelligence to the role. Focused on excellence and outcomes, you’ll set a benchmark for leadership across the county.
For more information about this role, please view the Role Profile below.
To apply
To apply for this job please click on the Apply button below and fill out the requested information. When prompted, please submit your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than four sides of A4 each).
With your CV, please also provide the names and contact details of two referees, one of whom should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be contacted if you reach the final stages, and we will not contact referees without your permission.
Your supporting statement should express why you are interested in this role and what experience you can bring to the organisation. The statement should tackle the specific requirements of the role; outlining examples and outcomes showing how you meet those requirements.
