Head of Service - Fleet and Passenger Transport - Local Authority

Interim Head of Service - Fleet and Passenger Transport

Location: Hybrid (minimum of 3 days per week on site) Contract Type: Interim Assignment Rate: Circa £550 per day via umbrella (DOE) Hours: Full-time, 5 days per week preferred

We are seeking an experienced Interim Head of Service to lead and manage the Fleet Services and Passenger Transport functions during a period of transition and service development. This role is crucial for providing strategic and operational leadership, particularly in areas such as vehicle maintenance, procurement, and home-to-school transport services.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Provide leadership and management across Fleet Services and Passenger Transport functions.
• Oversee fleet operations including vehicle maintenance programmes, workshops, compliance, and procurement activities.
• Ensure the effective delivery of passenger transport services, focusing on home-to-school transport arrangements.
• Lead service transformation and modernisation initiatives to align services with current organisational needs.
• Implement improvements in structures, processes, and operating models to enhance service efficiency.
• Drive performance management and continuous improvement across both service areas.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders, elected members, external partners, and service providers.
• Ensure all services comply with relevant legislation, policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Offer strategic advice and support to senior leadership teams.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Significant experience at Head of Service level or equivalent within a local government or large public sector environment.
• Extensive experience in Fleet Management.
• Proven ability in managing complex operational services and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong track record in leading change management, service transformation, and organisational improvement programmes.
• Excellent strategic leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience in managing budgets, contracts, and service performance.
• Ability to balance strategic planning with operational delivery.

Desirable Experience:

• Experience in Passenger Transport Services, particularly home-to-school transport.
• Knowledge of transport-related legislation, compliance, and service delivery models.
• Previous experience within a local authority setting.

Working Arrangements:

• Hybrid working with a minimum of three days per week on site.
• Candidates must be able to provide visible leadership and support to operational teams.

Candidate Profile:

We are looking for an experienced interim leader who can quickly assess service requirements, establish credibility with stakeholders, and provide stability during a period of change. Strong Fleet Management expertise is prioritised, with support available within the Passenger Transport function.

To apply for this Interim Head of Service position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.