The Challenge
Blackburn with Darwen Council required a suitable and experienced interim staffing cover due to the imminent departure from the Council of the Head of Highways. The interim Head of Highways role essentially provided the Council with the opportunity to keep business disruption to a minimum whilst it takes time to identify and recruit a suitable candidate to take on the role permanently. The interim role was to be filled by a consultant who has experience of managing and leading a diverse highways service.
Broad Responsibilities
- Provide strong performance management of the Transportation and Highways division by owning and developing service planning, robust financial and budget management and performance measurement ensuring that continuous improvement, value for money and best value are delivered.
- Assess staff performance and set appropriate target levels of service.
- Create a positive learning and working environment through delegation, mentoring and coaching of staff and through the identification of training and development needs.
Our Approach
Essency brought deep insight into the role of a Head of Highways and quickly aligned with the Council’s strategic aims and operational context. Our approach was tailored to stabilise the service and add immediate value through leadership, planning, and performance delivery.
Key Elements of Our Approach:
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Sustainable Transport Strategy: Led the continuous improvement of the borough’s transport system, aligned to environmental, social, and economic goals.
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Stakeholder Engagement: Maintained strong relationships with local communities, elected members, transport operators, and government agencies.
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Community Focus: Actively considered the needs of local businesses and residents in all aspects of highways management and maintenance.
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Operational Oversight: Set clear objectives, managed team performance, and led the division with accountability and purpose.
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Strategic Direction: Ensured full compliance with professional standards and legislative requirements while driving innovation and future-readiness.
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Governance & Reporting: Regularly reported on divisional performance to senior officers and members, contributing to transparent, evidence-led decision making.
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Legislative Insight: Interpreted and implemented new guidance, legislation, and government initiatives across all areas of service delivery.
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People Management: Created a positive, inclusive working environment, emphasising fairness, equality, and strong internal networks.
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HR & Culture: Supported effective HR management and promoted best practice across welfare, attendance, and performance processes.
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Service Innovation: Sought out new ideas and innovations, helping to future-proof service delivery and improve outcomes for stakeholders.
Project Outcomes
Essency provided the Council with high-impact interim leadership, ensuring stability, continuity, and momentum during a critical change period.
Key achievements included:
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Maintaining operational performance across all service areas
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Strengthening internal leadership, communication, and team morale
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Demonstrating clear value for money in service delivery
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Keeping customers and communities at the heart of decision making
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Introducing new ideas to support continuous improvement
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Supporting a smooth transition toward permanent recruitment
