Assistant Director of Smart Cities and ICT

About Sunderland City Council

Sunderland City Council is a recognised leader in Smart City innovation, dedicated to using advanced technology to enhance residents' lives, drive economic growth, and build a smarter, more connected future. Our award-winning smart city programme is transforming digital infrastructure, data innovation, and technology-enabled public services with a commitment to inclusivity.

Role Summary - Assistant Director of Smart Cities and ICT

We are seeking a visionary leader to join our Smart City and ICT leadership team. This pivotal senior role will shape the next phase of our digital transformation, driving the city's evolution into a digitally enabled, data-driven, and future-ready place. Reporting to the Director of Smart Cities & Enabling Services, you will provide strategic leadership across digital transformation, smart city innovation, and ICT service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead major citywide investment programmes in next-generation digital infrastructure and smart technologies.
• Shape and deliver the Smart City strategy, overseeing large-scale technology deployments.
• Manage strategic partnerships, including the Smart City Joint Venture, to maximise investment and impact.
• Provide senior leadership and strategic direction for the council's ICT service, ensuring a modern, resilient, and secure technology environment.
• Oversee ICT operations, cyber security, architecture, service delivery, business assurance, and City Alarm & Emergency Control.
• Contribute to the council's strategic direction, inspire high-performing teams, drive innovation, and represent Sunderland at regional and international forums.

Candidate Profile

This is a high-impact leadership role for an individual with strong strategic capability, deep digital and ICT expertise, and a passion for transforming places through technology. Candidates should possess extensive senior-level experience, a proven track record of delivering major ICT or smart city programmes, and the ability to build strong cross-sector partnerships.

Key skills/competency

Smart Cities, ICT, Digital Transformation, Strategic Leadership, Programme Delivery, Technology Deployment, Data Innovation, Cyber Security, Partnership Management, Public Services.