About the job
Some key information
This role provides the opportunity for hybrid working, allowing you to work either from home or from one of our offices. The role is offered as either a standard working week or as compressed hours. You will receive 33 days of annual leave (in addition to bank holidays). The position is permanent and full-time, with a 37-hour workweek.
What will I be doing?
Somerset offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant community life. Imagine working amidst rolling hills, charming villages, and stunning coastlines. Somerset’s thriving local economy, coupled with its commitment to sustainability and innovation, provides ample opportunities for professional growth and personal fulfillment.
The Council is at the forefront of carbon reduction initiatives as part of the Government's Live Labs 2 programme. It is also leading in AI adoption and has recently undergone major restructuring to reduce costs, along with a significant procurement programme for highways delivery and decarbonisation over the next 8-10 years. The Council is now in a stable position to deliver positive improvements and innovation.
You will be involved in delivering nationally significant projects such as Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Station, Agratas gigafactory (which will supply 50% of the UK’s electric vehicle batteries), and ensuring the smooth operation of global events like Glastonbury Festival.
As the Head of Highway Operations, you will oversee Somerset’s extensive highway infrastructure, including 6,700 km of roads, 2,500 bridges, 50,000 streetlights, and 6,200 km of public rights of way. Managing a budget of £55 million and a contract portfolio exceeding £300 million, you will lead a dedicated team to deliver innovative, cost-effective, and community-focused services.
What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?
We offer ongoing support, training, and guidance to help you succeed. Ideally, you will have a relevant degree and/or professional qualification, such as Chartered Engineer or equivalent experience. We seek someone with extensive knowledge of major issues facing the Highways sector, with proven ability to work in a political environment, establish relationships with stakeholders, and provide clear advice on strategy and policy decisions.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion, reflecting the communities we serve. We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Feel free to contact the hiring manager for a chat before applying if you have any questions.
What's in it for me?
We offer a supportive and rewarding environment, working as part of a passionate team dedicated to improving lives in Somerset.
Our benefits include excellent training and development opportunities, flexible working arrangements (including working from home), a generous annual leave allowance with options to purchase additional leave, staff discounts, employee assistance programs, a comprehensive pension scheme, optional pension enhancements, a flexible benefits scheme, and various discounts through My Staff Shop.
Anything else I should know?
The salary for this Grade 5 role is £78,168 per annum.
For an informal chat about the role, contact Mike O’Dowd-Jones at mike.odowdjones@somerset.gov.uk.
When completing your application or CV, please include your full employment history and explain any employment gaps. Start with your current or most recent employment.
If you have all the information you need, click the apply button — we look forward to hearing from you.
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