Jobs

Overview of the Transformation Director role

Sellick Partnership is proud to be working in partnership with Cherwell District Council to recruit an exceptional and visionary leader for the role of Transformation Director. This is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future direction of the Council at a time of significant transformation, ensuring that Cherwell is ready to meet future challenges and opportunities with confidence. Cherwell District Council has a strong reputation for bold ambition, innovation, and collaboration. As the Council continues to prepare for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and Multi-Scale Authority (MSA) readiness, this role will be central to driving transformation, embedding new ways of working, and ensuring financial sustainability. With responsibility for the Council's transformation programme, you will influence decisions at the highest level while building strong internal and external partnerships that deliver long-term benefits for communities.

About the role

The Transformation Director will lead a high-profile portfolio encompassing transformation, change, commercialisation, and digital innovation. You will report to senior leadership with accountability at executive level. Working closely with the Chief Executive and other Executive Directors, you will be an active member of the corporate leadership team, collectively responsible for embedding a high-performance, values-led culture across the organisation. This role will be central to delivering organisational change, enabling culture shift, and ensuring that Cherwell meets its Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) forecasts. By fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and embedding continuous improvement, you will strengthen the Council's capacity to meet future challenges and achieve sustainable outcomes.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for enterprise-wide transformation initiatives across all service areas including digital, operational and organisational change to ensure future-ready delivery and commercialisation of services.
• Drive organisational culture change, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Drive automation, AI, and digital solutions programmes to enhance services and efficiency.
• Ensure strong financial management and benefit realisation, delivering sustainable cost reductions and value for money.
• Build strong relationships with partners, members, colleagues, stakeholders, and local communities.
• Champion sustainability and environmental responsibility across services.
• Develop and support staff to achieve a high-performance, engaged, and inclusive culture.

About you

We are seeking a dynamic, bold, and forward-thinking leader who brings:

• A proven track record of transformation, delivering efficiencies, and embedding innovation
• Senior-level leadership experience within a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation
• Excellent leadership and management skills, including the ability to delegate appropriately
• Evidence of establishing a performance management culture to drive continuous improvement, including service planning, target setting, performance appraisal and the management of staff groups
• Expertise in ICT, digital, organisational change, and programme management
• Evidence of delivering sustainable cost reductions and service improvements
• A proven track record of working effectively within a political environment, providing clear, balanced advice and guidance on strategic issues that achieve service objectives
• Strong interpersonal, influencing, and ambassadorial skills
• A high-level management qualification or equivalent professional experience

What's in it for you?

This is a rare opportunity to make a significant impact across Cherwell, driving transformation and ensuring the organisation is fit for the future. You'll be part of a collaborative, values-led leadership team that embraces innovation and continuous improvement. With visibility at the highest levels and a chance to influence regional and national agendas, this role offers a unique platform to shape the future of local government. In return, Cherwell offers a competitive package and a culture that supports your wellbeing and development, including:

• 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution)
• Electric Vehicle and cycle to work schemes
• Annual flu vaccination and eye test allowance
• Incremental pay awards (awarded annually in April after one year of service)
• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
• Town centre offices in Banbury, close to transport and amenities

How to apply
If you are an ambitious and experienced leader ready to make a real impact, I would love to hear from you. For a confidential conversation about the role, contact Greg Jones at Sellick Partnership.

0121 828 0900 | greg.jones@sellickpartnership.co.uk
Connect with Greg on LinkedIn

Visit our microsite to find out more: https://cherwell-district-council.sellickpartnership.co.uk/

Closing date: Sunday 16 November 2025, 23:59

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.