We are excited to be working with Sellick Partnership to recruit to 3 leadership roles within Cherwell District Council. Details about each of the roles and how to apply are listed below:
Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services
Location: Castle Quay, Banbury
Contract: Permanent
Salary/Grade: £113,435.50 - £125,379 / Grade ED2
Closing Date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59
We are currently partnered with Sellick Partnership who are recruiting for the role of Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services here at Cherwell District Council. This is more than a leadership role - it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for one of the fastest-growing and most forward-thinking districts in the UK.
We are recognised for our bold approach to growth, sustainability, and community wellbeing. With a strong track record of innovation and collaboration, we are now entering an exciting new chapter, and one that will shape the district for decades to come.
Cherwell is delivering an ambitious programme of growth and regeneration that balances strategic vision with community impact. From implementing the Cherwell Local Plan 2042, which sets out bold plans for sustainable housing, economic development and climate action, to transforming Bicester as a Garden Town and revitalising urban centres, these initiatives aim to create thriving, inclusive places where people want to live and work. You’ll operate at the heart of a complex, high-profile agenda, influencing decisions that span housing, sustainability, and economic growth, while working collaboratively with partners across the public and private sectors to deliver outcomes that truly benefit residents and communities.
Cherwell is therefore seeking a strategic and visionary leader with a proven track record of transformation and operational excellence across complex, multi-disciplinary services. The successful candidate will be passionate about delivering high-quality, resident-focused neighbourhood services and will bring the leadership and innovation needed to leave a lasting legacy for local communities.
About the role:
The Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services will lead a broad portfolio including environmental services, housing and wellbeing, leisure, regulatory services, and community safety. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the role will be central to driving the Council’s transformation programme, strengthening community collaboration, and championing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Key responsibilities:
• Provide strategic leadership across a wide range of resident-facing Neighbourhood Services.
• Drive transformation and innovation to improve outcomes and experiences.
• Lead emergency planning and business continuity for the Council.
• Manage significant budgets and resources with strong financial governance.
• Champion sustainability and embed environmental responsibility.
• Represent the Council at senior levels with partners, government, and communities.
• Support the development, wellbeing, and engagement of staff across the directorate.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive when required.
About you:
We are looking for a bold, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader who brings:
• Senior-level experience in a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation.
• A track record of leading transformation and delivering service improvement.
• Expertise in housing, neighbourhood services, environmental services, leisure, regulatory functions, and community safety.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic decision-making skills.
• Political awareness and the ability to work effectively with elected members.
• Inspirational leadership and excellent communication skills.
• A relevant management qualification or equivalent professional experience.
What’s in it for you?
This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-thinking council in a senior leadership role where your impact will be felt across the organisation and wider region. You’ll be part of a dynamic, values-led environment that embraces innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With visibility at the highest levels and access to regional and national networks, you’ll be supported to grow professionally while driving meaningful change for communities.
In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a culture that supports your wellbeing and development, including:
• 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution).
• Electric Vehicle and cycle to work schemes.
• Annual flu vaccination and eye test allowance.
• Incremental pay awards (awarded annually in April after one year of service).
• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
• Town centre offices in Banbury, close to transport and amenities.
How to apply
If you are an ambitious and experienced leader ready to make a real impact, please apply for this role directly via our microsite with Sellick Partnership using the link provided below. For a confidential conversation about the role, contact Nikki Kinsey at Sellick Partnership who will be more than happy to set this up to discuss further.
Apply today
Closing date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59
Head of Biodiversity and Climate Resilience
Location: Castle Quay, Banbury
Contract: Permanent
Salary/Grade: £68,930 - £73,320.50 / Grade M
Closing Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025, 23:59
Lead the Charge on Climate Action!
We are currently partnered with Sellick Partnership who are recruiting an exciting permanent opportunity to join us as an experienced, dynamic Head of Biodiversity and Climate Resilience.
This is a high-impact leadership role focused on delivering Cherwell’s Climate Action Plan, accelerating progress towards net zero, and embedding climate action across all council operations. You’ll also lead on building climate resilience, particularly around flood risk, and champion biodiversity across the district.
We’re looking for a confident, credible and courageous leader who can challenge constructively, influence at all levels, and drive change where it’s needed. You’ll be climate and carbon literate, with a deep understanding of government priorities, policy frameworks, and climate governance. If you’re passionate about making a difference and have the courage to push boundaries, we want to hear from you.
About the Head of Biodiversity and Climate Resilience Role
Reporting to the Executive Director for Place & Regeneration, you will lead a small, capable team including early-career professionals, working across climate policy, sustainability, biodiversity, and flood risk management. You will also enable delivery through collaboration with other services and departments. You’ll be responsible for:
- Leading the delivery of Cherwell’s Climate Change Strategy and Climate Action Plan.
- Embedding climate action into planning, investment, procurement, and service delivery.
- Driving forward climate resilience initiatives, including flood risk mitigation and adaptation.
- Building strong partnerships across Oxfordshire and beyond to deliver collaborative climate solutions.
- Championing community engagement and inclusive climate communication.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership on climate change, carbon reduction, resilience, and biodiversity across the Council and district.
- Manage staff performance and development, supporting a small team and enabling wider delivery through cross-service collaboration.
- Integrate climate action into council operations, budgets, and long-term investment decisions.
- Lead on budget planning and resource allocation to support climate priorities.
- Brief and advise portfolio holders and senior stakeholders, ensuring climate action remains a strategic priority.
- Represent Cherwell at regional and national forums, influencing policy and promoting the Council’s climate priorities.
- Secure and manage external funding to support climate innovation and delivery.
- Act as the Council’s lead advisor on sustainability, net zero, adaptation, and resilience.
- Promote accessible and inclusive communication to engage communities in climate action.
About You
We’re looking for a confident, ambitious leader with credibility and drive to deliver meaningful change. You will bring:
- Senior-level experience in climate policy, carbon reduction, or environmental sustainability within a complex organisation (local authority experience is advantageous).
- A strong track record of leading teams and delivering high-impact climate projects.
- In-depth knowledge of UK climate legislation, government priorities, flood risk, and low-carbon planning.
- The ability to challenge constructively, influence decision-makers, and build buy-in across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Proven ability to build partnerships, engage stakeholders, and secure external funding.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and presentation skills.
- A degree in a relevant subject (e.g. Sustainability, Environmental Science); a Masters is desirable.
What’s in it for You?
This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to be at the forefront of climate leadership in local government. In this senior leadership position, you’ll have visibility and influence across the Council and wider region, operating in a high-profile, strategic role where your expertise will directly shape policy, delivery, and community impact. You’ll be part of a directorate that is being prioritised and invested in, giving you the platform and support to drive meaningful change.
You’ll benefit from opportunities to build a strong professional network through regional and national forums, while working in a dynamic environment where innovation and challenge are welcomed. This is a role for someone who wants to make a tangible difference – not only within the organisation, but across communities and the climate agenda.
In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a culture that supports your wellbeing and development, including:
- 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays).
- Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution).
- Electric Vehicle and cycle-to-work salary sacrifice schemes.
- Annual flu vaccination and £25 eye test reimbursement.
- Incremental pay awards (awarded annually in April after one year of service).
- Flexible / hybrid working arrangements.
- Town centre offices in Banbury, close to transport links and amenities.
How to Apply
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead climate action at scale and make a lasting impact on Cherwell’s environmental future. As Sellick Partnership are leading on this recruitment campaign, to apply, please submit your CV via our microsite with Sellick Partnership using the link below. For an informal conversation about the role before applying, you can contact Nikki Kinsey at Sellick Partnership who will be happy to set this up to discuss further.
Closing date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59
Head of Chief Executive’s Office
Location: Castle Quay, Banbury
Contract: Permanent
Salary/Grade: £68,930 - £73,320.50 / Grade M
Closing Date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59
Overview of the Head of Chief Executive’s Office role:
We are currently partnered with Sellick Partnership who are recruiting an exciting permanent opportunity to join us as Head of the Chief Executive’s Office. This is a pivotal leadership position at the heart of the Council, directly supporting the Chief Executive and leading key corporate functions including strategy and policy, performance, communications, and executive support.
The role requires a dynamic, strategic leader with proven experience of working within complex organisations and a record of delivering improvement, driving performance, and building high-performing teams.
You will be a key member of the corporate leadership team, working closely with elected members, executive directors, heads of service and external partners. This role offers the chance to shape organisational culture, align services with strategic priorities, and make a significant impact for local communities.
Key responsibilities of the Head of Chief Executive’s Office role will include:
- Provide leadership to the Chief Executive’s Office, including the Policy Development Officer, Performance Team Leader, Communications & Marketing Manager, and Executive Support Team Manager.
- Lead the delivery of strategy, policy, performance, communications, and executive support services across the Council.
- Support the Chief Executive with forward planning, prioritisation, and corporate coordination.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement and organisational excellence.
- Build effective internal and external partnerships to deliver shared goals.
- Ensure governance, compliance, and risk management are embedded in all activities.
- Champion staff development, engagement, and wellbeing.
- Demonstrate high levels of energy and staff engagement within the Chief Executive Office and across the council, ensuring effective two-way engagement and high momentum is maintained for initiatives to be successfully delivered
Required experience for the for the Head of Chief Executive’s Office role:
We are looking for an experienced, motivated and resilient leader who can inspire teams and navigate the political environment with sensitivity and professionalism. You will have:
- A proven track record of consistent and demonstrable achievement at a management level within an organisation of comparable scope and complexity.
- Experience of leading multi-disciplinary teams and delivering significant service improvements.
- Strong skills in strategy, policy, performance, communications and/or executive support.
- The ability to build strong relationships and influence at a senior level.
- A commitment to delivering excellent services for residents and communities.
- A high-level management qualification or equivalent professional experience is desirable.
What’s in it for you?
This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of the organisation, directly supporting the Chief Executive and playing a key role in shaping the council’s strategic direction. As Head of the Chief Executive’s Office, you’ll gain unparalleled insight into corporate leadership, lead high-impact projects, and influence decision-making at the highest level. It’s a role that offers both visibility and variety – ideal for someone looking to elevate their profile and make a tangible difference.
You’ll be part of a progressive, values-led council that embraces innovation and collaboration. In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a supportive culture that invests in your professional growth and wellbeing, including:
- 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution).
- Electric Vehicle and cycle to work salary sacrifice schemes.
- Annual flu vaccination and £25 eye test examination.
- Incremental pay award (awarded annually in April after one years’ service).
- Flexible working policy.
- Town centre offices in Banbury, close to the train station, canal, and local amenities.
How to apply
As Sellick Partnership are leading on this recruitment campaign, to apply, please submit your CV via our microsite with Sellick Partnership using the link below. For an informal and confidential conversation about the role before applying, you can contact Daniella Pye at Sellick Partnership who will be happy to set up a chat to discuss further.
Closing date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59