StreetScene Deputy Operations Manager
Location: East Devon, Devon
Job Type: Full Time (Permanent)
Closing date: 3 May 2026 at midnight
Expires: 11/05/2026
Salary: £44,075 - £51,356 per year
About the role
If you’re someone who thrives on variety, loves being out and about, and takes real pride in seeing the impact of your work across a whole district, this could be your next big move.
We’re looking for an additional experienced, hands‑on leader to help shape the future of East Devon’s StreetScene services. Working alongside our existing deputy operations manager you will each manage a team of three assigned Area Officers, with this vacancy also having responsibility for our Horticultural Officer. You will look after everything from parks and grounds maintenance to street cleansing, coastal defences, and public toilets across the district, and support some of East Devon’s most beloved community events.
Every day is different, and you’ll be expected to co‑ordinate the split of your time across the Exmouth and Manstone depots with your colleague. One moment you’re planning improvements or driving cultural change, the next you’re troubleshooting an urgent issue, supporting a team member, liaising with a community group, or stepping in to ensure smooth operations. You’ll be at the heart of a service that is highly visible, hugely valued, and central to how East Devon looks and feels.
With stunning natural surroundings, a supportive and varied team, and the chance to deliver meaningful improvements for local communities, this is a job where you can genuinely see the difference you make.
You’ll be responsible for:
* Leading and developing our Area Officers and Horticultural Officer to ensure a proactive, resilient and forward‑planning team
* Raising and maintaining high service standards across a wide range of parks and public spaces
* Supporting cultural change and embedding strong performance management
* Managing budgets, resources, procurement and operational planning
* Deputising for the StreetScene Operations Manager and responding to out‑of‑hours emergencies
* Driving improvement projects and championing continuous learning
About you
This role is perfect for someone with a strong operational background – ideally across StreetScene functions – who enjoys leading multifunctional teams, driving performance, and fostering a positive, forward‑thinking culture. You’ll also be comfortable with budgets, health and safety, recruitment, resource planning, and occasionally rolling up your sleeves when the district needs you.
You’ll bring an NVQ Level 4 in Leadership/Management (or equivalent experience), plus a relevant Level 3 qualification. Experience in high‑risk operational environments, ideally within environmental or public realm services, is essential. You’ll be a confident leader—organised, calm under pressure, customer‑focused, and ready to take ownership. A full driving licence and flexibility to respond to the unexpected are must‑haves.
Contact
For an informal discussion, please contact Julia Woodbridge, StreetScene Operations Manager, on 07709 720714 or email julia.woodbridge@eastdevon.gov.uk.
To apply online, please visit https://jobs.eastdevon.gov.uk/.
Company: East Devon District Council
Sector: Regeneration, Built Environment, Local Economies
Job Role: Manager
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