Apply for a role

Introduction

As Chair and Managing Director, we’re thrilled to welcome three new Non-Executive Directors to the Oxford Direct Services (ODS) Board. ODS is a business that benefits everyone—a company committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable economy that harmonises purpose with profit. We carefully consider the impact of our decisions on our employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and the environment.

With a team of over 500, we provide a wide range of essential services for Oxford City Council while also delivering numerous commercial contracts across the region. Our clients include businesses, landlords, charities, hospitals, and educational institutions. Our services span waste and recycling, parks and open spaces, housing repairs, highways maintenance, pest control, MOT testing, and much more.

We’re focused on efficiency, quality, and commercial success, but we’re equally passionate about creating social value. Our profits are reinvested into the public sector, creating a positive cycle that strengthens the communities we serve.

We are seeking Non-Executive Directors to join our Board as part of our succession planning efforts, helping to shape the future direction of ODS and drive impactful outcomes.

We’re particularly interested in candidates with expertise in finance, commercial growth, or relevant industry experience that aligns with our work.

You’ll bring energy, drive, and strong governance experience, along with excellent people skills and a genuine commitment to engaging with the local community. With ambitious plans for the future, we need the right skills and mindset to help us achieve our vision and make a real difference.

If this sounds like an exciting opportunity to contribute your skills and experience, we’d love to hear from you and explore how you can be part of our journey.

Cath Robinson – ODS Chair

Simon Howick – ODS MD

How to Apply

We are currently upgrading our system, and for the moment we require all applications via email.

In order to apply, you will need to send your CV, supporting statement and declaration form as attachments to recruitment@campbelltickell.com. Your CV and personal statement should ideally be a maximum of three pages each, plus the declaration form which can be downloaded here.

NOTE: Please include the job title and the organisation that you are applying to in the subject line of your email. Please also indicate which NED role you are applying for;

  • a qualified accountant bringing strong governance, audit, and risk management experience;
  • a commercial growth specialist with significant business development expertise; or
  • a commercial operations professional with experience in similar industries to ODS.

The role closes Friday 31st January 2025 (9am). Please ensure we receive your application in good time.
If you have any questions about the role or wish to have an informal discussion, please do not hesitate to contact Kelly Shaw – Senior Associate Consultant – Campbell Tickell via email at kelly.shaw@campbelltickell.com

Terms & Condition’s

Position:
Non-Executive Director

Purpose:
As a Non-Executive Director and part of the ODS’s Management Board, you will be expected to contribute to the management of the Company via your position on the board. You will bring an independent judgement to bear on issues of company development, finances, strategy, performance and resources, including key appointments and standards of conduct.

Time Commitment:
A minimum of 18 days per year to carry out duties as a NED of the ODS Board.
You will be expected to attend meetings of the Board, and to devote adequate time to preparation for evening Board meetings,

strategy away days, committees, visiting projects, undertaking training and development events as appropriate, and to attend and participate in reviews linked to individual performance and that of the whole Board.

Remuneration:
Up to £16,400 per annum, based on above time commitment, plus reasonable out of pocket expenses.

Terms of Office:
The Board Member shall be appointed by the Chair of the Board and approved by the Shareholder. The initial appointment will be for a period of 3 years.

Re-appointment of any NED will be considered at the AGM of the Shareholder and will be at the discretion of the Shareholder (total appointment shall not exceed 6 years).

Meeting Schedule:
Board Meetings are held every other month on the last Wednesday of the month. They start with socialising at 2 pm and the formal start time is 2.30 pm until they conclude. Most meetings are held virtually but there will be some expectation to attend the occasional face to face meeting.

2025 Board Meeting Dates: 29th January, 26th March, 28th May, 30th July, 24th September, 26th November.

The next shareholder meeting is 29th April 2025. Usual start time of 6 pm, in person in the Town Hall, until they conclude. Further provisional meetings are 24th July and 4th December 2025.

Key Dates and the Selection Process

Closing Date: Friday 31st January 2025 (9am)

The longlist will be agreed Friday 7th February 2025. All candidates will be informed of the outcome of their application by Monday 10th February 2025.

First Interviews: Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th February 2025 (commercial growth & commercial operations role) and Friday 14th February 2025 (finance role).

Longlist candidates will be interviewed virtually using MS Teams by a Campbell Tickell panel.

The shortlist will be agreed w/c 17th February 2025

Final Stage

  • There will be the opportunity to have a 30-minute virtual conversation with Oxford City Council Shareholders on either Wednesday 26th February (AM) or Friday 28th February 2025 (all day). This session will be with Caroline Green, Chief Executive and Councillor Nigel Chapman.
  • Final interviews will be held on either Thursday 6th or Friday 7th March 2025. The interviews will be led by Cath Robinson (ODS Chair) and Simon Howick (ODS MD). Kelly Shaw from Campbell Tickell will also be in attendance.
  • Stakeholder Session – There will also be an opportunity on the same day as the final interview to meet a range of stakeholders. Attendee details will be confirmed nearer the time.

Final interviews will be held at the Holiday Inn, Oxford, on either Thursday 6th or Friday 7th March 2025. The interviews will be led by Cath Robinson (ODS Chair) and Simon Howick (ODS MD). Kelly Shaw from Campbell Tickell will also be in attendance.