Deputy Head Housing Construction

This is a unique opportunity to lead one of the most ambitious housing programmes in the UK and play a pivotal role in transforming accommodation for Service families for generations to come. With responsibility for delivering a major capital housing programme, you will help shape the future of Defence housing, supporting the delivery of around 10,000 new sustainable homes across the UK over the next decade

As Deputy Head Housing Construction, you will lead the Defence Housing Service (DHS) Capital Construction and Purchase Programme, providing strategic leadership across a complex portfolio of housing development, regeneration and acquisition projects. Working at the heart of Defence Housing transformation, you will oversee significant investment programmes, guide key commercial and delivery decisions, and ensure the successful delivery of high-quality, sustainable homes that meet the needs of Service families now and in the future.

Reporting to senior Defence Housing leaders, you will provide expert advice to stakeholders across Defence, government and industry. You will work closely with developers, local authorities, delivery partners and regulators to unlock housing opportunities, secure investment and drive programme delivery. Leading multidisciplinary teams spanning programme management, commercial, technical, assurance and finance functions, you will ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and in line with statutory, regulatory and Defence requirements.

To be successful in this role, you will be an experienced leader with a strong track record in large-scale housing, construction, infrastructure or regeneration programmes. You will bring significant experience of delivering complex project portfolios, managing major budgets and navigating challenging stakeholder environments. Commercially astute and strategically minded, you will have the credibility to influence senior decision-makers, lead high-performing teams and drive innovation, sustainability and continuous improvement across a major national programme.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment where talented people can thrive and make a meaningful impact. In return, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant programme, work with a diverse range of stakeholders and help deliver modern, sustainable homes that directly support the lives and wellbeing of Service personnel and their families

Essential Criteria

This role operates at pace and with high visibility. We are looking for individuals with:

• Strong experience in policy development within complex or high-profile environments, ideally within housing, landlord functions or public service delivery
• Ability to analyse complex evidence and provide clear, balanced advice across operational, legal and financial considerations
• Proven experience supporting senior leaders and preparing high-quality written outputs, such as Ministerial briefings or policy instructions
• Demonstrable leadership experience, including managing teams and driving cross-organisational collaboration
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels across government and external partners
• Ability to operate in complex, ambiguous environments and deliver at pace while maintaining high standards