The role will report directly to the Head of Housing Supply. There may be opportunities for line management for the Housing Supply Enabling Officer in time. The primary purpose of this role is to lead the effective delivery of services that maximise the supply of social and affordable housing through the planning system and the strategic use of council resources. The postholder will have responsibility for housing delivery within the Local Planning Authority area, principally in Portsmouth, while also supporting delivery in neighbouring authorities where service level agreements apply, and within emerging combined authority areas as required. The role will independently manage key housing needs relating to social and affordable housing. It will act as a central link between the council’s Local Planning Authority and external specialists, such as viability consultants, providing advice on the level, type and suitability of affordable housing needed. The postholder will ensure that opportunities for delivering social and affordable housing, either on site or through financial contributions, are fully maximised. Strong relationships and communication skills will be used to encourage partnership working and reduce affordable housing sites becoming stalled. Where appropriate, this could include appraising the viability and suitability for the council to acquire section 106 housing to unlock delivery and meet its housing needs.