Director of Housing Strategy en London Borough of Lewisham

Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities!

We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.

Introduction

This is a role with real breadth, visibility and impact. You will lead a range of services that are already delivering positive change, with a strong transformation programme and a committed team of c150 staff. You’ll oversee services that span homelessness prevention, refugee support, private sector licensing, housing partnerships and service improvement — and you’ll be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of housing in Lewisham. With a net budget of £30m and three direct reports, you’ll be at the heart of a service that touches thousands of lives and plays a vital role in the borough’s future.

What’s the role?

We are proud of the progress we’ve made. Temporary accommodation numbers are falling, our partnerships are strong, and our teams are focused on outcomes. But we know there is more to do — and we are looking for a leader who can bring fresh ideas, connect services, and drive innovation. You’ll understand that housing is a system, not a set of silos. You’ll see the links between repairs, voids, homelessness and enforcement — and you’ll be able to lead across that system with clarity and purpose.

What’s in it for you?

Excellent training and development opportunities, plus a range of benefits including:

• Generous holiday allowance
• Local Government Pension scheme
• Flexible working and family friendly policies
• Season ticket and bicycle loans
• A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
• Supportive staff networks

What we’re looking for

This is a role for someone who thrives in complexity and is motivated by impact. You’ll bring deep housing expertise, a track record of leading change, and a commitment to equity and inclusion. You’ll be a visible, collaborative leader who empowers others and builds trust across the organisation. You’ll also be comfortable working in a political environment, advising elected members and representing the council externally.

Location

The job is primarily based in Laurence House, Catford, London, but we operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis.

Do Not apply for this role via this website

To apply visit https://www.gatenbysanderson.com/job/GSe126290/Director-of-Housing-Strategy/

For further details, please contact our retained partners at GatenbySanderson, Frazer Thouard ([email protected] ) or Alex Hayes ([email protected]).

Applicant handbook - please read the guidance in this handbook when applying. It is essential that you complete the application fully and that your supporting statement covers how you meet each of the person specification criteria listed.

Please click here to view the Job Description and Person Specification

Salary

£113,334 - £119,346 per annum (DIR3)

N.B: All appointments will be offered at the minimum spinal column point (SCP) for the grade of the role. The only exception to this will be when matching current salary (up to the maximum of the scale), which is subject to evidential proof.

Diversity

Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply

The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email  [email protected] and an advisor will be in touch with you.

The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response.

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