Head Of Community Development (Public Sector)

Head of Community Development

Location: Bangor / Agile working
Salary: £68,637 - £72,260
Contract: Permanent

About the Role

VANRATH are delighted to be assisting Ards and North Down Borough Council in the appointment of a Head of Community Development.

Operating within the Active and Healthy Communities Directorate, this role covers Community Development and Programmes, Community Centres, and Halls. The post holder will lead efforts to strengthen community engagement, drive social sustainability, and ensure services are inclusive, innovative, and continuously improving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop strategies for community development services.
• Provide advice to senior management on community policy matters.
• Manage multidisciplinary teams and build a culture of collaboration and performance.
• Deliver services that directly enhance community wellbeing.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with voluntary, community, and statutory organisations.
• Contribute to the Community Planning process and Local Area Plan.
• Manage budgets, resources, and governance obligations across services.
• Represent the Council at meetings, committees, and external events.

Candidate Criteria
Essential:

• Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject OR 5 years' relevant experience.
• At least 3 years' senior management experience within community development, with responsibility for:
• Strategy and business plan development.
• Advising senior management.
• Leading and managing teams.
• Strong financial, project, and change management experience.
• Proven ability to prioritise and balance competing demands.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and partnership skills.
• ICT competence with the ability to exploit technology effectively.
• Access to transport for role duties.

Desirable:

• Additional relevant professional qualifications.
• Chartered membership of a relevant professional body.

For more information, please contact Ethan Boylan today. IND04