Are you ready to shape the future of Portsmouth’s highways and coastal infrastructure? Join us as Head of Highways and Coastal Maintenance, a critical leadership role driving innovation, sustainability, and excellence in one of the UK’s most dynamic cities. Why Join Us? Be at the forefront of shaping the strategy for state-of-the-art highways and resilient coastal defences. Lead the transition from a long-term PFI contract to a visionary new era of infrastructure delivery by 2030. Partner with national organisations like the Department for Transport, utility companies, and local stakeholders to create infrastructure that supports biodiversity, decarbonisation, and active travel. Play a pivotal role in developing and implementing cutting-edge public realm and environmental strategies, while ensuring Portsmouth’s infrastructure meets the needs of its diverse and vibrant community. As a council we have a set of values and as part of the team you will be able to demonstrate these values. Our values and behaviours - Careers Portal (portsmouth.gov.uk) Your Mission: Strategic Leadership: Oversee the life care of Portsmouth’s highways, bridges, drainage, and coastal flood defences while managing a high-performing team. Transformative Vision: Lead the end-of-contract strategy for our Highways PFI, steering a smooth handover and shaping the future of infrastructure delivery. Innovation: Embed best practices in asset management, championing green initiatives and supporting an inclusive, sustainable urban landscape. Collaboration: Forge strong partnerships with utility providers, government agencies, and contractors to ensure seamless service delivery. About You: We’re looking for an ambitious, visionary leader with: A degree in civil engineering or equivalent, plus a professional qualification (CEng, MICE) or proven leadership experience. Exceptional skills in contract management, financial planning, and team building. A deep understanding of contracts, highways legislation, and public infrastructure challenges. A proven ability to deliver results under pressure while inspiring teams to excel. What’s in it for You? The chance to influence policies that align with Portsmouth’s values of diversity, inclusivity, and community-first development. An opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in one of the UK’s most dynamic coastal cities. A competitive salary and benefits package reflective of your skills and the importance of your role. Ready to Lead the Way? Join Portsmouth City Council as we transform our infrastructure and unlock the potential of a greener, smarter future for all. To make sure your application is above the rest, please download the Job Profile below to ensure your application matches the requirements of the role. When completing your application you will be required to complete a personal statement, please give examples of your experience and any transferrable skills. This is your opportunity to showcase yourself and your achievements. Please note that we offer hybrid working with the expectation to attend the office 2 days a week (pro rata for part time) depending on the role and business needs. Also, we are very happy to have an informal chat so you can get to know us before deciding to apply. If this is something you would be interested in then please contact Fiona Armstrong, Recruitment Officer at Fiona.Armstrongportsmouthcc.gov.uk. Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact recruitportsmouthcc.gov.uk Apply now and make your mark on a city that’s as ambitious as you are We will email applicants from time to time; please ensure you check e-mail folders as sometimes our e-mails may go into spam/junk folders. About Portsmouth City Council What we can offer you: Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act. Read more about working at Portsmouth City Council and our benefits on our careers portal homepage: Careers Portal - Find jobs with Portsmouth City Council