Director of Transport and Climate

Job details

Salary £96,900 to £112,827 Per year

Contractual hours 37

Basis Full time

Region Permanent / Full-Time

Job category/type Environment, Managerial, Transport & Highways

Date posted 02/07/2026

Job reference DEN1580

In Reading, we're laying the foundations for a borough that is bold, connected and ready for what's next. We're reimagining our town centre, unlocking opportunity for businesses and communities, and driving forward a modern place where innovation and growth thrive.

At the same time, we're transforming how people move, investing in better transport, stronger connections and a cleaner, low carbon future that works for everyone.

From active travel to smarter infrastructure, we're shaping a system that keeps Reading moving and supports sustainable economic success.

This is a fast paced, high performing organisation with real ambition and strong political and organisational backing. We're putting quality of life, connectivity and our net zero commitments at the heart of everything we do and we're looking for people who want to make a difference.

Reading isn't just a great place to live. It's an exciting place to lead, to innovate, and to deliver at scale. We have an enviable track record of delivery with record funding success, delivered on the ground. This role will shape everyday life in Reading; building a greener, more prosperous and equitable borough while influencing regional and national agendas.

This is a chance to lead a portfolio that matters every day in Reading. You will bring strategic grip, delivery focus and partnership leadership to services with high public visibility and lasting impact.

Portfolio / Responsibilities

The role's full portfolio includes:

• Strategic Transport
• Transport Development Management
• Climate and Sustainability
• Network Services
• Parking Services

High quality transport and connectivity are absolute priorities for the Council, look no further than the fact that the Council owns the local company as testament to this commitment.

We want residents to have access to a dependable, affordable and environmentally friendly public transport system, supported by a wider transport network that enables growth and strengthens Reading's attributes as a place to live, work and invest.

Climate and sustainability are central to Reading's future. We lead on climate action, inspire partners to drive harder on net zero, and engage community leaders and anchor institutions through the Reading Climate Change Partnership.

This role will drive the borough's net zero ambitions, improve environmental resilience, support cleaner air and healthier communities, and ensure Reading continues to show leadership in responding to the climate challenge.

Qualifications and Experience

We are looking for an accomplished and credible leader with the experience to shape ambitious climate and transport strategies and the delivery focus to turn them into tangible outcomes for the borough.

You will be confident working with partners, stakeholders and communities, and comfortable operating in a high profile political environment where elected members have a strong interest in this agenda. Commercially minded and financially astute, you will bring sound budget management skills alongside excellent professional knowledge of transport planning, network management, traffic regulation legislation, regulations and policy.

Want less talk, more action? Join our diverse and talented leadership team. We'd love to hear from you.

Closing date

Closing date: Monday 27 th July