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Assistant Director - Commercial & Place

Please note, the recruitment for this role is being administered by the Local Government Association on behalf of Local Partnerships LLP.

Employer:                  Local Partnerships

Location:                    Home-based, with travel to clients’ sites when necessary

Salary:                        from £45,000 p.a. 

Closing Date:             28 July 2025

Employment Type:   Permanent

Hours Per week:       35

Do you want to help shape the future of local government to ensure it is fit for the future?

Local Partnerships is growing – we’re looking for experienced professionals with the skills, credibility and drive to deliver transformational change in the public sector.

We work closely with central government, the Local Government Association (our part-owners), and councils across the UK to transform, build sector capacity as well as commercial capability. As we expand our portfolio, we’re seeking individuals who can turn national priorities into local action.

You may come from a technical background (procurement, contract management, finance or economics) or a broader role within local government. Public or private sector – we welcome both. What matters most is your ability to make things happen on the ground.

We are currently recruiting for an Assistant Director with experience in transformation, organisational change and general commercial acumen.

About Us

Local Partnerships is a joint venture between the UK Government and the Local Government Association. We support public sector organisations to deliver high-impact programmes in housing, infrastructure, regeneration, energy and more. Our work improves lives, strengthens communities and delivers long-term value.

About the Role

As an Assistant Director, you will:

  • Lead or support commercial projects, independently or as part of a team

  • Provide project direction, managing transitions across stages and applying appropriate methodologies

  • Produce strategic reports, business cases, and client-ready outputs

  • Oversee delivery phases, budgets, governance, and project transitions

  • Build trusted relationships with clients and key stakeholders

  • Support future business development and contribute to our national impact

  • Work with the Business Unit Director/Senior Directors as appropriate to ensure each project is delivered efficiently, effectively, on time and within budget

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 hear from candidates who have:

  • 5+ years of project delivery experience in transformation, commercial, finance or procurement related disciplines

  • Deep understanding of public sector governance, legislation, and delivery environments

  • Strong project management skills, including risk mitigation and stakeholder engagement

  • Exceptional communication, report writing, and problem-solving capabilities

  • Experience working with or within local government or central government

  • A collaborative mindset and ability to work across disciplines and partner organisations

To Apply

If you would like 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 Commercial / Transformation / Finance / Procurement Project Delivery Experience

  • A clear track record of delivering projects or workstreams in transformation, commercial, finance, procurement, 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).

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

  • A collaborative, expert and values-driven team

  • Flexible, home-based working with UK travel

  • Great benefits package and a supportive work culture that values work-life balance and wellbeing 

Interested?

We’d love to hear from you! Click on the link below to read the job descriptions in full and then apply for the role.

​Assistant Director - Commercial and Place - JD

Want to learn more about our impact?

Read our latest Impact Report to discover the amazing work our team is delivering across England and Wales: Impact Report 2024-25

We value diversity and encourage applications from all sections of the community, regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, transgender identity, religion or belief.