Lead and support the development, coordination, implementation, monitoring and updating of the policy and procedures for Parking & Highway's services.

This needs to be done in partnership with relevant managers and to promote continuous improvement and better delivery of services, influencing the infrastructure in place to support this and ensure that this is aligned with corporate strategy.

Ability to challenge and support service managers to develop policy, strategy and services that are informed by local and national evidence from research, legislation and best practice, along with national and local guidance, aligned with the overall council strategy and efficiency targets whilst ensuring customer focus.

Ensure meetings are serviced, including the management of but not limited to:

· forward planning

· policy support

· action planning

· performance management

· preparation of agendas

· writing reports

· taking of minutes as required

· attending and presenting policies and reports

Maintain a strategic overview for Parking and Highways service and promote joint working and internal and external links between services and partnerships as and when necessary.

Monitor and evaluate national legislation, policy and regulatory changes and respond to consultations and initiatives, briefing senior managers and ensuring that guidance and procedures in both Parking and Highways service are up to date.

Lead and support the development of high-quality communications in relation to both Parking and Highways service, working closely with the corporate communications team, including supporting clear messages about strategic direction and change, ensuring there are communication plans in place.

Ensure there is effective communication and understanding of the strategic direction of both Parking and Highways service within the council, with other organisations and businesses within Southend.

Lead on specific project work as identified and at the request of the Head of Service and be flexible in undertaking tasks and functions that arise.

Lead the research, evaluation and research governance function for Parking and Highways service.

Provide high quality evidence based advice and reports for Councillors, committees, partnerships and working groups and staff.

Undertake benchmarking as and when required

Responsible for the drafting, presentation and publishing of all annual reports;

Assist with Council questions/motions as required

Be the lead on all legislation, regulations, policy & compliance matters and report on changes when required.

Pro-actively ensure a positive promotion of equalities, valuing diversity and anti-discriminatory practice.

Responsible for ensuring best practice and sharing of information.