About this role
Job summary
As Public Health Lead - Behavioural Insights, you will champion the use of behavioural science to inform strategy, policy, service design and system-wide transformation. You will work closely with colleagues across the Council, the NHS, voluntary and community sector partners, and regional networks to understand behavioural drivers, identify barriers to change and design culturally competent approaches that make a meaningful difference for residents.
The successful candidate will bring strong public health expertise, political awareness, analytical rigour and excellent influencing skills. You will lead behavioural insights projects from conception through implementation and evaluation, manage staff and resources, support commissioning and partnership working, and build behavioural science capability across the organisation.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to Slough Borough Councils ambition to improve population health and wellbeing, strengthen prevention and deliver services that are inclusive, evidence-led and responsive to local needs.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will provide strategic leadership for the application of behavioural science and behavioural insights across public health programmes and policies within Slough. The postholder will lead the design, implementation, evaluation and continuous improvement of evidence-informed interventions aimed at improving health outcomes, reducing health inequalities and supporting healthier behaviours across local communities.
The postholder will champion the use of behavioural science principles to influence decision-making, service design and system-wide transformation. They will provide expert advice and guidance to internal and external stakeholders and contribute to the development of innovative strategies, policies and programmes that improve population health and wellbeing.
A high level of intellectual rigour, political awareness and negotiation and motivation skills as well as flexibility and sensitivity are required. You will be responsible for leading development and delivery of public health programmes and taking the lead for initiating and influencing partnership working at a high level for the portfolio area (Behavioural Insight), working to secure a reduction of health inequalities.
Lead the day-to-day operational delivery of behavioural insights programmes, with a key role in managing change and transformation within the public health department including managing public health staff, co-ordinating and supervising their work and coordinating public health advice and support to other departments across the Council and external partners.
Although the work of our team is focused on Slough there will be opportunities for strategic partnership working across the other Berkshire local authorities and more widely with the NHS, other organisations, voluntary sector and community groups.
You will provide high level guidance and advice to internal and external colleagues (including elected members); work with senior managers to develop new approaches and support the development of strategy, policy, plans and resource allocation.
Post holders will be responsible for co-ordinating and integrating the work of other staff.
The role requires advanced training or a full professional qualification, or proficiency in a specialised Public Health field, with a broad understanding of relationships between different operational areas, as well as significant experience at a management level.
Main Accountabilities
Play a key role in supporting the Senior PH Manager to ensure the widest possible participation in the public health agenda though forging partnerships with and influencing key stakeholders, focussing on using behavioural insights to inform our behavioural change ambitions.
Be responsible for developing, implementing, monitoring, evaluating and leading public health programmes to reduce health inequalities and improve health and wellbeing for all communities in Slough.
Apply behavioural science methodologies to understand behavioural drivers and barriers and identify opportunities for behaviour change interventions.
Provide specialist behavioural science subject matter expertise to inform and support commissioners, providers, third sector and independent sector organisations to promote and deliver improved health outcomes for communities in Slough, with a particular emphasis on the reduction of health inequalities.
Develop and oversee behavioural science projects from conception through implementation and evaluation.
Oversight and development of the community development function
Support the development of culturally competent interventions that address barriers to behaviour change.
People Management
Manage two members of staff, and others temporarily attached to the team.
Support workforce development and build behavioural science capability across the organisation.
Relationship Management & Networking
Build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues and Elected Members within the Council and across the public health system.
Proactively network and engage with organisations to gather ideas and good practice examples that can be built upon for the benefit of service delivery. Represent Public Health and the Behavioural Insights function at local, regional and national forums as required.
Develop networks that support the sharing of behavioural science expertise, innovation and best practice.
Financial & Resource Management
Manage specified public health budgets in accordance with SBC governance.
Handle and process computerised data and information with care, accuracy, confidentiality and security.
Ensure resources are used effectively and deliver value for money.
Support commissioning and procurement processes where appropriate.
Values
Uphold and model the values and behaviours of Slough Borough Council and ensure that all activities are consistent with public service values
Challenge any inappropriate behaviours as necessary.
Equality & Diversity
Work inclusively with others and provide direction to generate a positive work environment, promote cultural competency and remove barriers to accessing services.
Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Utilise relevant policies and procedures to help maintain a safe and secure work environment for employees and visitors to council premises.
About us
As part of Slough Borough Council, you will join an organisation focused on improving outcomes for residents, communities and the local environment. Our Community Team for People with Learning Disabilities works collaboratively with residents, carers, families, colleagues and partner organisations to provide high-quality, person-centred support. The team is committed to strengths-based practice, professional curiosity and making a positive difference in peoples lives.
You will be part of a friendly, supportive and inclusive working environment where colleagues share knowledge, work together and take pride in delivering services that matter. We value a strong work ethic built on compassion, accountability, innovation and respect. Staff are encouraged to contribute ideas, learn from one another and play an active role in helping the Council move forward together.
Working with us offers the opportunity to develop your career while being supported to balance work and personal commitments. Alongside a competitive salary, employees benefit from flexible and hybrid working arrangements, annual leave entitlement, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, wellbeing initiatives, employee networks and opportunities to contribute to meaningful change for the people of Slough.
Job description Job responsibilities
Directorate: Public Health & Public Protection, Communities and Engagement Pay Level: 9, £54,556 - £60,085 (fully inclusive of Local Weighting Allowance) Contract Type: Permanent Working Hours: 37 hours per week Location: Observatory House/ Slough Hybrid (minimum 2 days per week in the office) DBS requirement: Enhanced The closing date for applications is midnight on 4th September 2026
Interviews will be held week commencing 14th September 2026
What you’ll be doing:
We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Public Health Lead - Behavioural Insights to provide strategic leadership for the use of behavioural science across our public health programmes, policies and partnerships.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape evidence-informed interventions that improve health outcomes, reduce health inequalities and support healthier behaviours across Slough’s diverse communities. You will champion the use of behavioural insights to influence decision-making, service design and system-wide transformation, working closely with colleagues, elected members, NHS partners, voluntary sector organisations and community groups.
As Public Health Lead - Behavioural Insights, you will lead the design, delivery, evaluation and continuous improvement of behavioural science programmes. You will provide expert advice to internal and external stakeholders, support the development of strategy and policy, and help ensure public health interventions are culturally competent, inclusive and grounded in evidence.
You will also manage and develop staff, oversee the community development function, manage specified public health budgets and build behavioural science capability across the organisation.
Our Council:
Our vision is to make a difference to our communities and environment. Every employee contributes to services for local people, directly or by supporting colleagues. We celebrate diversity and want residents to enjoy fulfilling, prosperous and healthy lives.
What we offer:
We offer a supportive place to grow your career, where your input is valued and heard. You will join a friendly, collaborative environment where ambition and innovation are encouraged.
We support flexible and hybrid working to help colleagues achieve a positive work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, recruit on merit and value a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Annual increments, where applicable, are usually payable on 1 April, subject to six months’ service and satisfactory performance, until the maximum spinal column point is reached.
Alongside a competitive salary, we provide:
26 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 days after 2 years and 33 days after 5 years’ service. The Local Government Pension Scheme Wellbeing initiatives and employee networks that help us celebrate and promote equality. Tax-free childcare and childcare services Season ticket loan to help with rail or bus travel to and from work. Accessibility and Support:
Slough Borough Council is an inclusive employer. Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Information shared will be treated confidentially and used only to provide appropriate support throughout recruitment and beyond.
Our staff networks represent diverse colleague groups and help make the Council a place where people feel included and can thrive.
Follow the link HERE to learn more.
Right to Work and Checks:
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. If you require sponsorship, please contact [email protected] before applying.
We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. Appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks.
How we recruit at Slough Borough Council
Our 8 Core Skills
At Slough Borough Council, we are moving Forward Together. Our core skills reflect what we value and will form part of your interview.
Click here to find out more - How we recruit | Slough Borough Council
How to Apply:
Please click on the Apply button below to submit your application.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Join Slough Borough Council and help accelerate our transformation and growth.
The Council reserves the right to close adverts early should we receive a number of suitable applications.
Join Slough Borough Council – Move Forward Together!
Person Specification
Experience Essential
Demonstrable successful senior management experience in a large, complex, multi-service organisation, managing across technical or professional areas. Experience of managing significant organisational change with evidence of achieving tangible benefits, including supporting the implementation of new organisational structures, systems and / or new and flexible ways of working. Experience of financial and budgetary management with the ability to formulate financial strategies that provide value for money Extensive knowledge of the strategic and financial challenges facing local government, Integrated Care Boards and the NHS Significant experience of delivering and evaluating projects, especially preventive programmes and health interventions in the community Extensive knowledge of public health, and services which support health and wellbeing Proven track record of embracing digital approaches and new ways of working to achieve efficiencies and improved ways of working.
Desirable
N.A
Skills and Abilities Essential
Advanced public health skills to analyse, complex public health issues, undertake needs assessment, research and critical appraisal to inform evidence-based public health interventions. Ability to meaningfully contribute to strategic decision-making, including making evidence-based decisions in a fast-paced environment. Strong level of digital literacy, including office software suites and flexible ways of working (e.g. video conferencing, remote working). Ability to plan, commission and organise work to produce a high level of output to quality standards, and lead on longer term developments of the service. Ability to facilitate change and transformation, developing productive and collaborative ways of working with colleagues and stakeholders, leading and motivating others to achieve continuous improvement. Excellent written and oral communication, negotiating and influencing skills. Experience leading the delivery of large projects and/or programmes, demonstrating sound project management skills and experience, managing performance to achieve required outcomes.
Desirable
N/A
Knowledge and understanding Essential
Behavioural change theories relevant to promoting and improving Public Health and Wellbeing Understanding of the workings of local government including cabinet, scrutiny and democratic structures. Good numeracy skills to interpret and analyse complex performance and finance information. Awareness of the values and behaviours expected from Slough Borough Council to promote a positive working environment and culture. Understanding of Health and Safety legislation and good practice and how it relates to themselves and others in the workplace.
Desirable
N/A
Qualification Essential
Public health related qualification - anticipated to be degree level + Post Graduate qualification (e.g. MPH) Demonstrable commitment to continuing professional development.
Desirable
Membership of a relevant Public Health chartered or professional body e.g. UKPHR or RSPH.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details Employer name Slough Borough Council
Address Observatory House, 25 Windsor Rd,
Slough
Berkshire
SL1 2EL
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.slough.gov.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)