Strategic Manager – Waste and Environment

Please apply online via the link provided.

Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form. For school vacancies please see further details online regarding their application process.

The Isle of Wight Council currently does not have a license to sponsor overseas workers.

The Isle of Wight Council reserve the right to close vacancies earlier than stated, if required. To ensure your application is considered, it is recommended to submit your application promptly.

37 hours per week

The Isle of Wight Council is seeking a bold and visionary leader to take on a pivotal role in shaping the Island’s environmental future. As Strategic Manager for Waste & Environment, you will be at the forefront of delivering sustainable change across a landscape that is both geographically unique and environmentally ambitious.

This is a role for someone who thrives on complexity and collaboration. You will lead two dynamic teams—Waste & Public Realm, and Climate, Coast & Environment—bringing together operational delivery, strategic planning, and contract management to drive forward the council’s environmental priorities. From overseeing coastal protection and beach management to delivering our Climate, Biosphere and Sustainability strategy, your work will touch every corner of the Island and every aspect of its future resilience.

You will act as deputy Authority Representative for our major Waste Contract, manage high-value partnerships including NHS waste and energy services, and lead large-scale projects that demand both technical expertise and political sensitivity. The ability to influence, negotiate and inspire will be central to your success.

We are looking for someone with deep professional knowledge in waste and environmental services, a strong track record of leadership, and the confidence to operate at both strategic and operational levels. You will be comfortable navigating the demands of a political environment, engaging with elected members, and building trusted relationships with stakeholders across sectors.

This is more than a management role—it is an opportunity to lead with purpose, to innovate in public service, and to make a lasting impact on a place that matters. The Isle of Wight offers a rare blend of challenge and opportunity, and we are looking for someone with the ambition, resilience and drive to meet it head-on.

If you are ready to lead transformative change in a council committed to sustainability, inclusion and excellence, we would love to hear from you.

This is more than a job—it’s a chance to shape the future of a place that matters.