Carbon, climate and energy

Director of Strategic Energy and Carbon

£47,181 – £50,269 per annum pro rata plus £3,203 car benefit allowance

Fixed term (maternity cover for 12 months)

As Strategic Director, Energy and Carbon, you will lead Luton Borough Council’s efforts to achieve its ambitious net zero target for 2040. Your primary responsibility will be to oversee the council’s strategic initiatives to monitor, report and reduce energy and carbon. You will play a pivotal role in the production and implementation of the Local Area Energy Plan and Luton’s Energy Strategy, driving targets such as renewable energy generation, energy reduction and supporting city-wide decarbonisation.

In this role, you will act as lead for the company’s Net Zero Delivery Group, ensuring the integration of the energy strategy across the Council’s Local Plan and regeneration policies. Your work will be integral to shaping a city-wide approach to carbon reduction, enhancing Luton’s economic and environmental reputation. Through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, you will ensure commitments to the 2040 net zero target and facilitate a comprehensive program that addresses energy efficiency and fuel poverty across housing and businesses in Luton.

Key responsibilities include overseeing compliance with the UK Climate Change Act 2008 (as amended) and ensuring Luton’s net zero carbon KPIs are met. You will drive the council’s energy use reductions and lead carbon emissions reporting, conduct feasibility studies for large-scale projects, support renewable energy investments, and identify funding opportunities to support energy efficiency initiatives. This is a dynamic and strategic role that requires a combination of technical expertise and leadership to make a lasting impact.

About you

You are an experienced professional with a strong background in energy management and a passion for sustainability. I have successfully developed and implemented energy strategies, managed investment programs and conducted energy audits. Your understanding of smart metering principles and carbon management programs prepares you to lead Luton Borough Council’s ambitious Net Zero 2040 roadmap.

Your ability to influence and inspire others is crucial. You excel at building relationships with stakeholders, leading strategic development plans, and presenting complex data in a clear and impactful way. You are a skilled communicator, able to produce detailed technical and non-technical reports and influence traditional methods of promoting innovation.

You are skilled at analyzing energy consumption patterns, performing energy saving calculations, and interpreting thermodynamic principles to enhance efficiency. Your in-depth knowledge of current energy conservation trends and carbon reduction legislation in the UK allows you to apply these insights to diverse property portfolios.

A relevant professional qualification or equivalent experience is essential, and membership of a suitable institute is desirable. Demonstrates strong organizational skills, ability to adapt to changing priorities, and ability to meet tough deadlines. Equality and diversity are at the heart of your approach, ensuring inclusivity in all aspects of service delivery and stakeholder engagement.

If you have the experience, drive and vision to support Luton Borough Council’s energy and carbon reduction strategy, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference on the journey towards a sustainable future.

about us

Our ambitious Vision Luton 2040 – which states that no one in Luton will have to live in poverty – is at the heart of everything we do. We know that our employees are amazing, talented, committed, and passionate about serving our residents.

The people of Luton rely heavily on this council – and that means our workforce! Are you ready to go big and help us achieve our vision?

We welcome applications from all sectors of the community and are committed to developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our region.

benefits

We offer a range of excellent employee benefits which include:

• – Annual leave from 25 to 32 days: linked to the length of service and grade
• Purchase Annual Leave Scheme: Purchase up to 20 additional annual leave days
• Career Paths: Advance your career or move into a specialized field
• Pension scheme: with generous employer contributions of up to 20.2 per cent (as of July 2023) and a service death grant of 3 times salary
• Generous relocation package: up to £8,000 (subject to eligibility)
• Employee Assistance Programme: A free confidential counseling and wellbeing support service available to all employees, their partners or spouses and children over 16 who are still living at home.
• Work-life balance: Flexible working options including working from home where possible. We welcome requests for flexible working arrangements including part-time hours and alternative working patterns
• Training and Support: Unlimited access to development courses, mentoring, support and clear career paths
• Staff offers include discounts on MOT, gym and fitness, restaurants and salons
• Arriva Travel Club: Big savings on local bus travel

Closing date: October 31, 2025.