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.