Technical Lead - Highways Control (S.278 / S.38)

Our client, in the highways sector, is currently seeking a Technical Lead - Highways Control (S.278 / S.38) to join their team on a contract basis. This role involves providing technical leadership and operational management for their Highway Control function, ensuring compliance with national and local standards for developer-led highway works.

Purpose of Job:

• To provide technical leadership, professional oversight, and operational management of the Highway Control function, ensuring compliance with standards and suitability for long-term maintenance.
• Lead on the technical approval process, oversee the preparation and delivery of highway legal agreements, and maintain the Council's technical standards.

Main Activities & Responsibilities:

1. Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Provide clear leadership and management for the Highways Control team, ensuring delivery of service objectives.
• Translate service and corporate priorities into operational delivery plans.
• Act as a senior professional lead on highways development matters.
• Oversee service delivery improvements and efficiencies.
• Deputise for the Highways Development Management & Control Manager as required.

2. People Management

• Line-manage staff, including recruitment, supervision, and professional development.
• Foster a positive and high‑performance culture aligned with organisational values.
• Support workforce resilience and skills development.
• Provide leadership through organisational change.

3. Technical Approval and Standards

• Act as the technical lead for the approval of highway works under Section 278 and Section 38 of the Highways Act.
• Ensure all schemes comply with Worcestershire County Council's adopted highway standards and national standards.
• Lead the development and maintenance of the Council's Technical Standards and Guidance.

4. Legal Agreements and Governance

• Oversee the instruction of legal services on S278 and S38 agreements including technical inputs and calculations.
• Ensure appropriate governance, record keeping, and audit trails for all highway agreements.
• Provide technical input to reports and senior management briefings.

5. Development Management and Stakeholder Engagement

• Oversee the end-to-end S.278 / S.38 processes to ensure efficient project management and delivery.
• Provide expert technical advice on major development proposals, working closely with planning authorities, developers, and internal teams.
• Represent the Highway Authority at meetings and public inquiries.
• Manage relationships with stakeholders, including elected Members and senior developers.

6. Performance, Budget, and Continuous Improvement

• Manage resources within delegated budgets, ensuring value for money and effective use of staff and developer contributions.
• Monitor and improve performance against agreed service standards.
• Lead service improvement, innovation, and digital transformation initiatives.

Job Requirements:

• Experience with Section 278 and Section 38 agreements.
• Strong background in highways development control.
• Technical leadership and people management skills.
• Expert knowledge of national and local highway standards and regulations.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in managing budgets and resources.
• Commitment to public accountability and ethical governance.

If you are an experienced professional in highways control and looking for a new opportunity to lead and shape the delivery of highway works, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our client's dedicated team.