Head of Housing Strategy

Do you want to lead the strategic direction of housing in Gateshead, shaping policies, programmes and investment that influence outcomes for thousands of residents? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match. These roles form part of a wider organisational redesign to ensure the Council is structured to deliver high-quality, efficient and sustainable services for the people of Gateshead. This supports our commitment to modernising how we operate, strengthening accountability and putting residents at the heart of everything we do, ensuring everyone in our borough can thrive. At Gateshead Council, we take pride in delivering high-quality services that make a real difference to residents' lives. As a Head of Service, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across key functions, helping to shape services, drive improvement and support our Thrive agenda. You will be part of a collaborative leadership community that values innovation, integrity and strong partnership working. Supporting services that make a difference to our communities Our Housing Strategy Service plays a vital role in shaping the long-term vision for housing in Gateshead. From developing the Council's overarching Housing Strategy and supporting policies, to leading housing development programmes, HRA business planning, homelessness strategy and customer insight - this service defines how we meet housing need, improve standards and deliver better outcomes for residents. As Head of Housing Strategy, you will provide leadership across strategy development, commissioning, housing development, customer contact strategy, HRA planning, data insight and regulatory compliance. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the Council delivers high-quality, evidence-based and financially sustainable housing services. What you will get to do In this senior leadership role, you will:

• Lead the production, delivery and continuous review of the Council's Housing Strategy and supporting strategies, including homelessness, private sector housing, allocations and housing development
• Provide strategic leadership for homelessness prevention and response, including commissioning, contract management, monitoring and system improvement
• Lead the development and delivery of specialist and supported accommodation and commission relevant supported housing and support services
• Lead housing development programmes and housing-led regeneration, working with Registered Providers, private developers and partners to increase housing supply and investment
• Lead the Council's 30-year HRA Business Plan and HRA Asset Management Plan, ensuring long-term viability, compliance and alignment with strategic priorities
• Provide strategic oversight of capital programme development, delivery, monitoring and commissioning across housing services
• Act as the Accountable Person for building safety across housing services, ensuring robust compliance, risk management and assurance
• Lead strategic housing data, insight and evidence functions, ensuring high-quality analysis, timely statutory returns and data-led decision-making
• Oversee the development and improvement of housing management systems, including CRM and property systems, ensuring data integrity and service effectiveness
• Lead the strategic planning and delivery of the housing customer contact function, ensuring an accessible, high-quality and consistent customer experience
• Lead process redesign, tenant-led scrutiny, complaints analysis, Ombudsman learning, FOI oversight and data protection compliance to drive continuous improvement
• Ensure tenant voice and insight directly influence strategy, policy and service improvement, with clear evidence of impact
• Lead the development of funding bids and external investment opportunities to maximise housing outcomes and system capacity
• Contribute to the wider Housing Services leadership team and corporate priorities, supporting integrated service delivery across the Council
• Provide strategic housing advice and representation to Elected Members, senior leaders, partners and government bodies, leading partnerships, risk management, business continuity and acting as a member of the Council's Emergency Response Team when required
  
  Extensive knowledge of housing strategy, legislation, HRA business planning, housing development and regulatory compliance
• Significant senior leadership experience across strategic and operational housing services
• Proven ability to develop and deliver housing strategies, policies and plans, including homelessness, private sector housing, allocations and housing development
• Strong financial and commercial awareness, including HRA planning, capital programme management, commissioning and securing external funding
• Excellent partnership-building and influencing skills, with experience working regionally, across sectors and with government bodies
• An approved Level 5 housing management qualification (or willingness to achieve within the Competence and Conduct Standard transition period)
• A degree-level qualification or substantial relevant experience demonstrating the ability to operate at a strategic Head of Service level
  
  Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
• Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don't just offer a great salary - we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides: https://twpf.info
• Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
• Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work-life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
• Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax-efficient cycle to work programme.
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand-new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions - a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services - plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).