Somerset Council
Service Manager - Flood & Coastal Management
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Salary: Grade 7, £55,101 per annum
Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent role
Closing date: 2nd September 2026
Flooding, coastal change and climate resilience are some of the most significant challenges facing Somerset's communities, businesses and infrastructure.
This influential leadership role offers the opportunity to shape how Somerset Council manages flood risk, protects coastal environments and prepares for future challenges, leading strategic programmes that deliver real benefits across the county. You'll work with senior leaders, elected members, regional partners and government agencies to secure investment, drive innovation and help create safer, more resilient communities for the future.
About the Role:
As Service Manager for Flood & Coastal Management, you will lead a specialist service responsible for managing local flood risk, supporting coastal responsibilities and driving Somerset's resilience and adaptation agenda. Working as part of the Directorate Senior Leadership Team, you'll provide strategic direction, oversee service delivery, and build strong partnerships to secure investment and deliver long-term improvements for communities across the county.
How You'll Make a Difference:
- Lead and develop the Flood & Coastal Management Service, ensuring resources are used effectively and statutory responsibilities are delivered.
- Shape and deliver long-term flood risk, coastal management and asset management strategies for Somerset.
- Secure funding and investment opportunities, representing the Council at regional and national levels.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, local organisations and key stakeholders to deliver flood and coastal mitigation projects.
- Provide expert advice to senior leaders and elected members on policy, strategy and operational matters.
- Lead community and partner engagement before, during and after flood events, helping strengthen resilience across Somerset.
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What You'll Bring:
- Significant leadership experience within flood risk management, coastal management, environmental services or a related field.
- Strong understanding of flood and coastal management policy, legislation and the challenges of resilience and climate adaptation.
- Experience leading teams, managing services and delivering strategic programmes or policy development.
- Proven ability to build effective partnerships and influence a wide range of stakeholders, including public sector organisations and government agencies.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex issues and provide advice at a senior level.
- A relevant degree, professional qualification or equivalent experience, supported by ongoing professional development.
Why Join Us?:
At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.
- 33 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
- Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
- Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.
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Find out more about working at Somerset Council: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/
Further Information:
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
- Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
For an informal chat about the role, you can contact James Divall, Head of Climate & Natural Environment, on james.divall@somerset.gov.uk or 01935 462261
We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.
You can find a copy of the job description here: Service Manager - Flood & Coastal Management - Job Description - RP266 - 1286AB.pdf
If you currently work for Somerset Council, please apply via the internal SuccessFactors careers page.
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