Enabling People, Empowering Communities, Enhancing Places Sandwell’s story is one of potential and striving to realise the ambitions of our borough, our residents and communities. We have been through a period of significant challenge including government intervention, but through determination and our drive for excellence, we look to the future with pride and a sense of purpose. While we have come so far, there is more to do; breaking down silos, embedding our values across the organisation, and ensuring that we continue to transform to deliver the best services for our residents. Created 50 years ago from six proud towns, each unique but united by a shared identity and rich culture, Sandwell is a place built on making things happen. It’s where industry met innovation, and where strong communities continue to shape the future. We’re looking for an exceptional leader to join our senior team as Service Director of Customer, Democracy and Neighbourhoods – a pivotal role at the heart of our ambition to transform how we serve our communities, empower councillors to lead and ensuring our services reflect the needs of our towns, neighbourhoods and residents. This is a unique opportunity to create a single, unified engagement function, leading the integration of customer services across the authority to create a seamless, consistent experience for residents. You will champion innovation in digital to modernise how people interact with the council, whilst ensuring no one is left behind. But this role is about more than systems – it’s about people and place. You will drive a new model of neighbourhood working that puts councillors at the heart of the communities they represent. You will work closely with political leaders to develop relationships within the authority and externally, and strengthening our ward-level engagement to support our elected Members to lead locally, and help residents feel more connected to where they live, inspiring the next generation of civic leaders. Raising the profile and impact of local democracy, making it more visible, accessible and meaningful. We are seeking someone who is truly collaborative, breaking down silos and bringing services together around the customer. Exhibiting high levels of political awareness you will need the ability to build strong relationships with Members, communities and partners is critical, inspiring cultural change, and leading transformation within our customer services function. You will bring a track record of senior leadership and a passion for public service, with the ambition to deliver great customer and community engagement in Sandwell. For further information speak to our executive search partners Gatenby Sanderson: Alex Hayes (07586 715843) or Philip Emms (07590 225472). Closing date: Tuesday 26 th August 2025 Sandwell Council |