Overall Purpose of Job To lead and champion Newham’s council’s retrofit programme to deliver on the council’s climate targets in relation to the Climate Emergency and achieving net zero by 2045 for Newham’s built environment, including the housing stock, public buildings and private sector, in line with the council’s Just Transition Plan. To further develop the Newham council’s retrofit strategy to an exemplar standard, including community engagement, finance and funding, governance and procurement, stock data to deliver transformational net zero and climate resilient neighbourhoods. To secure substantial carbon emission reduction outcomes from Newham’s built environment by influencing how residents, businesses and partners think and act, by influencing contracts, governance and procurement processes, and by addressing approaches to construction. To continue collaborating with the Climate Team and Net Zero Energy Lead to develop an effective strategy to decarbonise the Council’s housing portfolio for both heating and electricity and develop options for implementation regarding financing, resident engagement, and delivery capacity. To create a strategy for leaseholders, learning from other councils, regarding fabric and heating upgrades. To develop a cross-council approach to retrofit, joining up work across all service areas to create a cohesive and coordinated approach to retrofit and net zero neighbourhood delivery across the borough with residents at the heart. To work in partnership and extensive collaboration within the council, with residents and community organisations, borough partners, commercial partners, and national government departments and agencies. To research and evaluate methods of financing Newham’s £1bn retrofit requirement to bring the full housing stock to net zero by 2045, evaluating impacts on residents and Newham’s budget, and testing new ways of financing the green transition with the Director of Climate Action and relevant colleagues. To oversee the delivery of retrofit to LBN’s Warm Homes Social Housing Fund portfolio of 359 properties as part of the London Council’s Strategic Partnership, and to manage retrofit projects funded by the Council’s Carbon Offset Fund. To deputise for the Director of Climate Action as requested. Role Context The post holder reports to the Director of Climate Action. The post holder has a system leadership influencing role, working in extensive collaboration with members, council staff, residents, and businesses. The post holder will play a key role in influencing the Council’s budget and external funding planning processes to ensure Newham meets its 2045 net zero goals. The post holder will matrix manage a number of programmes and projects involving multi-disciplinary staff. Long-term Objectives for Retrofit Continue the development of the first net zero/low carbon/retrofitted neighbourhood. Create a replicable strategy for phased area-based rollout of net-zero neighbourhoods to achieve £1 billion retrofit of 17,000 social housing homes to meet council climate targets. Build capacity and help secure large-scale financing for borough-wide retrofit resident engagement in the order of £1 billion. Upgrade all contracts, tenders, and technical specifications to meet retrofit/net-zero requirements. Manage projects and programmes that achieve LBN’s Net Zero Roadmap, Just Transition Plan, and Retrofit Delivery Plan. Tasks within Climate Action Drive climate action in every aspect of the Council’s work, advising on environmental implications of current operations and propositions. Strategically advise the council on retrofit, climate change impacts, and sustainable investment opportunities. Work with Members to identify impactful opportunities for climate change and drive implementation through their portfolios. Build partnerships for collaboration across the council, with residents and businesses, leading climate action beyond direct resources. Aim to include local people in the journey to net zero carbon, promoting grassroots activity and community buy-in. Campaign and bid for funding to manage the climate emergency effectively. Represent the Council in discussions related to climate action development and delivery. Accountabilities within Climate Action Accountabilities include maintaining the Corporate Plan, working cross-sectionally with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring people-centered approaches, and leading and implementing corporate projects. Strategy: Review and work towards the Council’s aims and outcomes, avoiding siloed approaches. Service Quality: Deliver transparency and accountability, harnessing resources from various sectors. Performance: Ensure effective service delivery, manage budgets, and uphold ethical governance. Resource Management: Manage budgets effectively and deliver value for money. Leadership and Culture: Drive change and uphold standards in equality, health & safety, and resilience policies. Qualifications Degree level education or equivalent experience in a relevant senior role. Knowledge/Experience Climate change expertise and strategic understanding of related topics. Experience in large, complex settings with a track record of collaboration and engagement. Ability to lead innovative initiatives and exploit funding opportunities. Skills and Abilities Political awareness and relationship-building skills. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Leadership and team motivation skills. Ability to plan strategically and monitor performance. Other Special Requirements Willingness to work flexible hours for service delivery. Politically Restricted Posts This post is politically restricted as defined by local government legislation. Additional Information Newham is committed to inclusivity and safeguarding. Applications are considered on merit regardless of personal characteristics. Anonymised recruitment is practiced.