Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services

Location: Castle Quay, Banbury

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59

Cherwell District Council, in partnership with Sellick Partnership, is seeking an outstanding leader who possesses strategic insight, clear vision and an excellent reputation for the role of Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services. This is a senior leadership role with the opportunity to shape growth, sustainability and community wellbeing across the district.

Cherwell District Council is recognised for its bold approach to growth, sustainability and community wellbeing. The Council is delivering an ambitious programme of growth and regeneration, balancing strategic vision with community impact, including initiatives such as the Cherwell Local Plan 2042 and transforming Bicester as a Garden Town.

About the role

The Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services will lead a broad portfolio including environmental services, housing and wellbeing, leisure, regulatory services, and community safety. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the role will drive the Council’s transformation programme, strengthen community collaboration, and champion sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across a wide range of resident-facing Neighbourhood Services.
• Drive transformation and innovation to improve outcomes and experiences.
• Lead emergency planning and business continuity for the Council.
• Manage significant budgets and resources with strong financial governance.
• Champion sustainability and embed environmental responsibility.
• Represent the Council at senior levels with partners, government and communities.
• Support the development, wellbeing and engagement of staff across the directorate.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive when required.

About you

We are looking for a bold, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader who brings:

• Senior-level experience in a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation.
• A track record of leading transformation and delivering service improvement.
• Expertise in housing, neighbourhood services, environmental services, leisure, regulatory functions, and community safety.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic decision-making skills.
• Political awareness and the ability to work effectively with elected members.
• Inspirational leadership and excellent communication skills.

What s in it for you?

This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-thinking council in a senior leadership role where your impact will be felt across the organisation and wider region. You1 be part of a dynamic, values-led environment that embraces innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, with visibility at the highest levels and access to regional and national networks.

In return, Cherwell offers a competitive package and a culture that supports wellbeing and development, including:

• 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution)
• Electric Vehicle and cycle to work schemes
• Annual flu vaccination and eye test allowance
• Incremental pay awards (awarded annually in April after one year of service)
• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
• Town centre offices in Banbury, close to transport and amenities

How to apply

If you are an ambitious and experienced leader ready to make a real impact, we would love to hear from you. Visit our microsite to find out more: https://cherwell-district-council.sellickpartnership.co.uk/ or contact Nikki Kinsey at Sellick Partnership for a confidential conversation about the role.

As part of the application process, a CV and personal statement will be requested. The personal statement (maximum 2,500 words) should outline your suitability for the role, including relevant skills, qualities and experience, with reference to the criteria set out in the job description.

Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances. Our advertisements use years of experience, hourly rates and salary levels purely as a guide and we assess applications based on the experience and skills evidenced on the CV. For information on how your personal details may be used by Sellick Partnership, please review our data processing notice on our website.

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