Role Purpose Provide strategic, operational and professional leadership for our client’s Highways Management service, ensuring a safe, resilient and well-managed highway network that supports the Corporate Plan and Vision 2034. Lead a multidisciplinary team delivering policy, asset management, street works, development control and major programmes across the borough. Key Duties and Responsibilities * Lead, inspire and develop a team of 44 professionals delivering highways policy, programmes and network management. * Drive service and corporate improvement, contributing to the Strategic Infrastructure leadership team. * Own and deliver revenue budgets and capital programme, including income targets and robust governance. * Ensure statutory and regulatory compliance across Highways, including the Street works Permit Scheme and DfT legislation. * Oversee highways input to major developments and planning applications, ensuring impacts are assessed and consultations handled proactively. * Provide expert advice to elected members and senior leaders on highways legislation, policy, strategy and funding. * Lead delivery of the Highways Infrastructure Asset Management Plan, championing innovation and best practice. * Represent our client regionally and build strong partnerships to influence policy and coordinate delivery. * Support economic growth, safer roads, active travel, air quality, congestion reduction and inequality objectives through effective highway management. Qualifications * Degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Civil Engineering or Transport Planning) or equivalent experience. * Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes * Chartered Engineer status or relevant professional qualification, or equivalent experience. Experience and Skills * Senior-level leadership experience in engineering/highways/transport services. * Proven management of revenue/capital budgets and income targets. * Experience advising and briefing elected members in a political environment. * Strong knowledge of highways management, legislation, strategy and policy. * Excellent influencing, negotiation, communication and consultation skills. * Customer-focused with experience engaging the public. * IT-literate (Microsoft Office) and skilled in stakeholder/partner relationship management