Director of Waste Services

A Midlands local authority is seeking an experienced Interim Head / Director of Waste Services to provide leadership across its waste and recycling service during a key period of operational improvement and strategic development.

This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished local government professional to lead a high-profile service, drive performance and support the delivery of the council's environmental priorities.

The Opportunity

Working closely with senior leadership and elected members, you will take responsibility for the effective management of waste, recycling and associated environmental services, ensuring the service remains efficient, compliant and resident-focused.

Key duties will include:

• Leading all aspects of waste and recycling service delivery.

• Driving operational performance and service improvement initiatives.

• Providing strategic direction to managers and frontline teams.

• Overseeing contracts, budgets and supplier relationships.

• Ensuring compliance with relevant waste management legislation and health and safety requirements.

• Supporting the development and implementation of waste and recycling strategies.

• Managing stakeholder relationships across the council, partner organisations and elected members.

• Identifying opportunities for efficiencies, innovation and improved customer outcomes.

Candidate Requirements

The successful candidate will possess:

• Significant experience leading waste, recycling or environmental services within local government.

• A proven track record of delivering service improvement and transformation.

• Strong operational leadership and people management skills.

• Experience managing large-scale budgets and complex service contracts.

• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, including working with senior officers and councillors.

• The ability to quickly assess service performance and implement practical solutions.

Desirable Experience

• Waste collection and disposal services.

• Fleet operations and depot management.

• Contract procurement and mobilisation.

• Route optimisation and service redesign.

• Environmental services transformation programmes.

Contract Details

• 6-month initial contract

• £575-£675 per day

• Inside IR35

• Hybrid working arrangement

• Midlands-based authority

This assignment would suit an experienced Head of Waste, Waste Operations Manager, Assistant Director or Director of Environmental Services looking to make an immediate impact within a progressive local authority.

To discuss this opportunity in confidence call (phone number removed)