Deputy Head of Service (Assets & Development) — Social Housing
Location: West Yorkshire (hybrid working available) with travel across Yorkshire and the Northwest
Salary: Up to £60,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications)
Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday (flexible working available after six months)
Benefits: 6 weeks' annual leave plus Bank Holidays, contributory pension scheme, 55p per mile car user allowance
Fortem People is proud to be partnering with a well-established, values-driven housing group in West Yorkshire to recruit a Deputy Head of Service (Assets & Development). This is a confidential appointment; full details of the organisation will be shared with shortlisted candidates.
The role
Reporting to the Head of Property Services and leading the Assets & Development team, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership across asset management and development. You'll oversee new-build developments, refurbishment projects and planned maintenance investment programmes, ensuring delivery within budget, on programme and in line with grant funding requirements. You'll also take a lead role in managing the group's leasehold portfolio, including identifying and acquiring leased properties and new stock to meet business needs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and developing the Assets & Development team, driving continuous improvement in policy, process and performance
- Developing and implementing the Asset Management Strategy, including commissioning stock condition surveys and managing the 30-year planned maintenance programme
- Procuring and managing contracts for planned maintenance, cyclical and refurbishment works, using frameworks and consortia to achieve value for money
- Developing and monitoring a robust development strategy, appraising acquisitions and schemes within a clear risk framework
- Actively pursuing Homes England grant and other funding opportunities (including via West Yorkshire Combined Authority), and preparing bids for the Social & Affordable Housing Programme
- Leading lease reviews, renewals, acquisitions and disposals, and negotiating with landlords
- Providing assurance and reporting to senior leadership, Board and committees on asset performance, investment and property-related risk
- Deputising for the Head of Property Services when required
About you
You'll bring:
- Proven leadership and performance management experience
- A strong track record in development and property-related asset management
- Experience of procurement across development, refurbishment and planned maintenance, including procuring, awarding and managing building contracts
- Skilled contract negotiation and sound budget management, financial control and reporting experience
- A demonstrable record of managing compliance with HSE guidance and relevant legislation
- Experience preparing reports and presenting recommendations to senior leadership, boards or committees
- A relevant construction and/or property management qualification with evidence of CPD
Social housing experience and membership of a professional body (RICS, CIOB or CIH) would be advantageous.
An enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.
To apply or for a confidential conversation, contact Rachel Deeks at Fortem People.
Pay: £60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
