Bradford is a district on the rise: ambitious, confident and determined to deliver lasting change. With one of Europe’s youngest and most diverse populations, Bradford’s potential is huge. Following a brilliant year as UK City of Culture, the city is channelling its energy into a bold, long‑term plan to create fairer opportunities and stronger communities. We are transforming places, strengthening neighbourhoods, reshaping public services and improving outcomes across the district. We are seeking energetic, forward‑thinking and inspirational leaders who can harness this momentum and play a key role in shaping one of the UK’s most important urban transformation journeys.
THE ROLE
This role will place you at the heart of this journey. As Strategic Director for Environment, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the District’s ambitions for inclusive growth, cleaner environments and thriving communities translate into high‑performing, modern public services.
You will lead a large, complex directorate including Culture, Leisure, Sport, Community Services, Highways, Waste, Environmental Services, Fleet and Air Quality, ensuring these frontline services are efficient, high‑quality and continuously improving. Working as a key member of the Corporate Management Team, you will help shape and deliver Council‑wide strategy, champion a One Council approach, and drive organisational transformation that supports long‑term sustainability, value for money, and improved outcomes.
The Strategic Director will also lead the development and implementation of the Council’s environmental and sustainability strategies, driving modernisation, innovation and best practice across energy use, resource management and environmental performance. Bradford is already leading the way as one of only seven cities in the country to have implemented a Clean Air Zone, and you will play an influential role in strengthening district‑wide environmental leadership, working collaboratively through the Environment Partnership as well as with regional bodies to align Bradford’s ambitions with wider sustainability priorities across Yorkshire and the Humber. You will work closely with government agencies, public bodies, businesses, the voluntary sector and community partners to shape shared solutions, unlock barriers, and embed a culture of joint delivery.
As a place leader, you will ensure that communities, members and partners are confident in the Council’s direction, supporting political priorities and guiding the organisation through significant and complex change. This role offers a rare platform to influence major strategic outcomes, lead large‑scale transformation, and help build the confident, modern and sustainable Bradford of the future.
Tim Farr on 07756 293292 or tim.farr@starfishsearch.com
Timeline
Closing Date: 26th April 2026
Longlisting: 29th April 2026
Technical Interviews: 8th May 2026
Shortlisting: 14th May 2026
Final Panel: w/c 25th May 2026
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