The Job:

We have ambitious plans to develop more affordable homes and find creative solutions to meeting a range of housing needs across Cherwell District. As Strategic Housing Officer in our busy Housing Strategy and Development Team you will play an important part in negotiating and enabling delivery of affordable housing through partnership working with Registered Providers, Development Companies, County, District and Parish Councils and with local landowners and communities. You will also play a key role in getting the best possible affordable housing outcome from private development S.106 Agreements through viability assessments and working with our in-house legal team. The role also involves developing housing related strategies and policies to inform delivery of the Council’s strategic housing functions, and delivering projects to help make Cherwell a place of choice to live, work and enjoy. This role presents a real opportunity to make a positive contribution to improving the housing choices of Cherwell residents.

The Person:

You will have previous experience of housing strategy and policy development in a similar role and have a current sound knowledge and understanding of housing development processes; housing legislation, policy issues and trends; and planning policy and processes. You will have sound negotiation and excellent communication skills with an ability to communicate complex issues to a diverse range of audiences, including elected Members, community groups, senior managers and stakeholders. As this role involves partnership working with a range of organisations, parish councils and community groups, you must be able and willing to travel to and work from other locations throughout the district and work flexibly to include attendance at meetings, consultations and occasionally events outside of normal working hours.

The Benefits:

The Council is an equal opportunities employer and has flexible working practices.

•             A generous annual leave entitlement

•             Opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme

•             Cycle to work scheme (after one years’ service)

•             Incremental pay award (awarded annually in April after one years’ service)

Closing date: Tuesday 11 May 2021

Interview date: Thursday 20 May 2021

For more information please contact Frances Evans, Housing Strategy and Development Team Leader on 01295 227033.

To download a recruitment pack and apply for the post, please visit our website or contact Human Resources on 01295 221767

Cherwell District Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults