Are you passionate about making a difference in the public sector? Do you have a strong track record in project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and a deep understanding of PFI/PPP contracts? Whether you’re an experienced Assistant Director ready to step into a new challenge / a senior professional looking for a Director-level role, we want to hear from you.
At Local Partnerships, we help public sector organisations across England and Wales deliver projects that improve lives, shape communities, and create long-term value. As a key delivery partner to the UK Government and the Local Government Association, we work on high-profile, high-impact initiatives across infrastructure, energy, housing, and more.
We’re currently expanding our team and are recruiting for Assistant Directors with experience in complex contracting between the public and private sectors—particularly in the PFI/PPP space. We are also welcoming interest from more senior candidates who may be suitable for Director-level roles.
About the Role
As an Assistant Director, you will:
Support the delivery of strategic projects, either independently / as part of a multi-disciplinary team
Apply your specialist knowledge—whether legal, technical, commercial / financial—to solve complex public sector challenges
Build strong relationships with clients, navigate stakeholder environments, and contribute to public value
Work across project lifecycles— planning and procurement, dealing with contract management and operational issues, expiry/termination and subsequent transitional arrangements
Assignments often involve producing high-quality analytical reports and recommendations, so excellent written and communication skills are essential
You’ll need to understand the public sector context, including the role of elected officials, and demonstrate integrity, adaptability and resilience.
What We're Looking For
The role often requires balancing commercial interests with public accountability, so integrity, resilience under pressure, and the ability to make sound decisions are vital.
We’re keen to have candidates who have:
Proven experience in PFI/PPP projects, ideally 5+ years
Knowledge of sector-specific legislation and guidance
Strong commercial understanding of public-private contracting, particularly SoPC-based forms of contract
Experience of risk management approaches, with the ability to identify and mitigate risks
Exceptional project management and stakeholder engagement skills
A track record of effective delivery within / alongside the public sector in a technical, legal, financial, commercial field
A collaborative, solutions-focused mindset, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
To Apply
To be considered for the role, please complete the online form and include a supporting statement detailing how you meet the criteria for the role before the closing date.
We are specifically assessing candidates against the following criteria:
1. Relevant PFI/PPP Project Delivery Experience
A clear track record of delivering complex PFI/PPP projects or workstreams, ideally in housing, regeneration, or public sector contexts.
Evidence of managing project phases, outputs, and transitions.
2. Sector-Specific Experience (Public Sector or Third Sector)
Roles within or alongside UK local/central government, housing bodies, or community organisations.
Specific references to public sector clients or projects.
3. Business Case or Strategic Report Writing
Direct mentions of producing business cases, strategic reports, or similar deliverables.
Outputs aligning with public sector methodologies (e.g., HM Treasury Green Book, Five Case Model).
4. Line or Project Team Management
Team leadership or management of multi-disciplinary project teams.
Evidence of overseeing team activities, timelines, or budgets.
5. Relevant Professional Qualifications and Education
Degree-level education.
Relevant professional qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, RICS, RTPI, etc.).
6. Business Development and Client Relationship Management
Experience of developing client relationships, repeat business, or expanding accounts.
Mentions of identifying new opportunities, writing proposals, or engaging in strategic growth.
Why Join Us?
Make a real difference by supporting the delivery of critical public services
Work on diverse, challenging projects with high levels of autonomy
Collaborate with a passionate, mission-driven team
Flexible, home-based working with UK travel
Great benefits package, promoting work-life balance, wellbeing and financial security
Interested?
If you're an accomplished project professional in the PFI/PPP space - whether you're looking for your next step as an Assistant Director / feel ready for a Director-level role . Click on the link below to read the job description(s) and apply for the role.
Read our latest Impact Report to discover the amazing work our team is delivering across England and Wales: Impact Report 2024
We value diversity and encourage applications within all sections of the community, regardless of race, national / ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, transgender identity, religion / belief.
