Service Director Strategy and Change

Icips; England; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in the United Kingdom is seeking a Service Director to lead strategic initiatives and change. The successful candidate will manage significant budgets, engage with stakeholders, and ensure the delivery of key plans that benefit the community. This position offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous annual leave

Access to Local Government Pension Scheme

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience in strategic planning and service delivery.
• Proven ability to manage large budgets in complex environments.
• Expertise in policy development and program management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the Shropshire Plan and Improvement Plan.
• Manage the Programme Management Office and high-impact projects.
• Ensure governance, financial management, and performance monitoring.

Skills

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Change management

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

Degree or professional qualification in relevant discipline

Job description

Shropshire Council
Service Director Strategy and Change

Shropshire (with flexible and hybrid working arrangements)

Are you a strategic leader passionate about driving change in local government? Shropshire Council is looking for a Service Director – Strategy and Change to join our Leadership Board.

What You’ll Do

• Strategically lead the development and delivery of a new Shropshire Plan, including the Improvement Plan, Partnership Plan and People Plan
• Lead the Programme Management Office (PMO) and deliver high-impact change projects
• Provide expert advice to align services with our vision and priorities
• Build strong relationships with Members, partners, and stakeholders at all levels
• Champion innovation, continuous improvement, and evidence-based decision-making
• Ensure robust governance, financial management, and performance monitoring
• Oversee key strategies in communications, organisational design, business intelligence, and public engagement

About You

• Senior leadership experience in strategic planning, change, commissioning, and service delivery
• Proven ability to manage large budgets and deliver results in complex environments
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience in policy development, programme management, and partnership working
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and continuous improvement
• Degree or professional qualification (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline

Why Shropshire Council?

We’re committed to fostering a healthy, inclusive, and empowered workforce. You’ll help shape the future of our organisation and make a real difference to our residents. We offer a competitive salary, generous annual leave, flexible working, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

How to Apply

For more information, please visit our careers page. To apply for the role please submit an up-to-date CV and no more than 2 sides of A4 expressing why you would be the right candidate for the role.

Institute for Continuous Improvement in Public Services
Charity Registered in England: 1159783 Company Number: 08114272