Starfish Search are working with a local authority in the south who are seeking an Interim Housing Strategy Lead to provide strategic expertise and leadership across housing policy, homelessness, and affordable housing delivery. This role will play a pivotal part in shaping key strategies, engaging with partners, and ensuring that affordable housing policies are robust, evidence-based, and defensible.
You Will:
* Lead the development of a co-produced Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy and take this through the democratic process for adoption.
* Lead the development of a co-produced Specialist Housing Strategy and associated Specialist Housing Supplementary Planning Document, also progressing these through the democratic process.
* Provide expert advice on affordable housing in planning consultations, negotiations with developers, Registered Providers, Homes England, and other key stakeholders.
* Represent and justify affordable housing policies at appeals, inquiries, and to planning inspectors.
* Work collaboratively with colleagues, senior officers, elected members, and external partners to build engagement and momentum.
* Present effectively and confidently to communicate key information and influence decision-making.
You Will Have:
* Significant expertise in housing strategy, affordable housing policy, and development.
* Strong research, evaluation, and analysis skills with the ability to translate evidence into effective policy.
* Proven experience of working with stakeholders at a senior level, including councillors, senior officers, developers, and Government agencies.
* The ability to motivate, engage, and collaborate with partners to deliver strategic outcomes.
* Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the confidence to influence at all levels.
This is an interim assignment for 4 – 6 months, offered on a part time basis, with potential for extension.