Job Description

Ipswich is a town with a rich heritage and an exciting future. As a regional centre, we play a vital role in Suffolk’s economic success. This is the perfect time to work here. We’re looking for a new Managing Director for seven of the local authority trading companies (LATCo) associated with Ipswich Borough Council.

These companies play a vital role in Ipswich. They provide the council with a revenue stream of over £3m per year enabling the council to protect its front-line service delivery. They build new, high-quality council and market-rent housing. They provide facilities management services including cleaning, and car parking across Suffolk and beyond. They manage a property investment fund and build new carbon-neutral facilities for the council.

As Managing Director of these companies, you will ensure they are well-led and continue to deliver their shareholder’s objectives. You’ll develop them ensuring they are well-governed and best in class. This is your opportunity to shine and share our pride in Ipswich.

About the role

These companies provide a range of different property and facilities-related services to the Borough Council, tenants, residents and customers in the public, private and third sectors. Employing c100 staff, the companies generated a turnover in 2022/23 of c£21m and hold a property portfolio valued at c£110 million. They are leading an £80m housebuilding programme and a facilities development programme of over £50m.

Our new Managing Director will provide leadership and direction for seven companies, working closely with the Boards and shareholders. The range and variety of services and operations will provide you with a challenging and rewarding environment in which to develop bespoke commercial strategies and continue our track record of delivering excellent services.

This is a role for someone with a background in property or facilities management and a track record of successful delivery of commercial operations and revenue generation at a leadership level. Possessing a drive for customer excellence and highly developed commercial acumen you will also bring the ability to move seamlessly between strategic and operational priorities. Your well-developed stakeholder skills will enable you to work authentically and effectively with the Boards and shareholders making a significant contribution to the success of Ipswich. If you would like to discuss flexible working arrangements including a reduced working week then please speak to the Tile Hill team.

For further information about Ipswich Borough Council’s trading companies please visit: www.handfordhomes.co.uk and www.ipserv.co.uk

Visit www.recruitment.ambitionipswich.com to find out more and apply. Or, for a confidential discussion, contact Mark Bearn (07747181490) or Maud Hollis (07444696659) at Tile Hill.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Tuesday 5th September

Preliminary interviews (virtual): w/c 11th September

Assessment centre: w/c 25th September

Final interviews: w/c 2nd October