Employee testimonials

"Cherwell is one of the most vibrant and highest-growth districts in the country – there is an energy and buzz here that makes Cherwell District Council a unique place to work. What excites me most is the chance to bring real innovation to the way we deliver services and create a council where people can thrive. For ambitious leaders, this is an opportunity to make a real difference – to our communities, to our organisation, and to the future of Cherwell. We are a bold, ambitious council committed to innovation – modernising the way we work and creating a culture where people and communities thrive. We have some fantastic opportunities for candidates to join a council determined to do things differently and create lasting, meaningful change. We want people who are bold, innovative, and committed to building strong, collaborative teams. The right leaders will help us shape the council of the future. Leaders who thrive here are those who value integrity, inclusiveness, and collaboration – and who inspire others to achieve their best. If this is you, then I look forward to exploring how we might work together!"

Gordon Stewart, Chief Executive

"Cherwell is a great place to work. Every day, I work alongside skilled colleagues who are committed to improving lives in our community and who are warm, friendly and accommodating. The culture here is inclusive, supportive, and driven by our common goals through our corporate strategy. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your career, this is a place to make it happen. Where your work matters and you can make an impact."

Richard Smith, Head of Housing

"Since I joined the council three years ago, we've been on a journey of enormous change, focussed on delivering the best outcomes we can for residents, whilst managing the ambitious growth of the district which the council led when setting its last Local Plan. It’s not been without its challenges, and continues to be so, and the council supports its employees to tackle these head on with a culture of support and assistance. Our new offices make collaborating a breeze, with the added bonus of great coffee and food available on the doorstep! Come and join us, I think you'll love it!"

Ian Boll, Executive Director - Place and Regeneration

"After 11 years at Cherwell District Council, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic place to build a career. I’ve had the opportunity to grow professionally, progressing into a senior leadership role thanks to the support and development offered here. What truly sets Cherwell apart is the people. I’m surrounded by passionate, dedicated colleagues who care deeply about making a difference for our communities and residents. With our recent move to a modern office space and the launch of an ambitious new vision and strategy, this is a genuinely exciting time to join us. If you're looking for a workplace where you can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and be part of something forward-thinking, Cherwell could be the perfect fit."

Claire Cox, Assistant Director of Human Resources

"Cherwell is a fantastic place to work. Whether it’s reacting to the latest government announcement, running a shopping centre or supporting members in understanding how we can best meet their priorities within the resources available to us, there is always something interesting going on to keep you occupied when delivering the day-to-day council services just isn’t enough. I joined Cherwell in June 2020 as Assistant Director of Finance and became the S151 Officer in February 2022. I am incredibly proud of the teams that I lead across Finance and Revenues and Benefits. We are always looking for innovative ways to support the organisation and ensure that our residents and businesses receive the most efficient and effective service possible. Since being at Cherwell I have overseen the Revenues and Benefits Team being brought back in house and continuously improve from that point, embracing automation, and also been amazed by the Finance team embracing the multifaceted challenges of supporting the organisation with growing demand for services whilst needing to identify and deliver savings."

Michael Furness, Assistant Director of Finance and Section 151 Officer

"I have worked as the Head of Revenues and Benefits at Cherwell District Council since November 2021. During my career I have worked at other authorities, however Cherwell District Council is different to other authorities I have previously worked with. My greatest achievement in this role at Cherwell has been building and leading a highly motivated and resilient Revenues and Benefits team. As Head of Service, the focus was on creating a supportive environment where every team member understood their vital contribution to the council's vision. By investing in professional development and giving staff the autonomy to excel, we not only navigated significant change but also adopted a culture of public service excellence with exceptional performance. Cherwell is an ambitious council that is committed to helping and improving the lives of our residents and businesses and the energy and expertise of the team are a constant source of inspiration. The support and mentorship provided by the Assistant and Corporate Directors provide opportunities to take on new projects and challenges which has allowed me to develop in my role professionally. Hybrid working has completely transformed productivity. Without the daily journey to the offices and distractions the office can bring, tasks can be done with full immersion. This has allowed for delivery of higher-quality work and has given a better control over the workflow and the overall council's performance in the Revenues and Benefits. Working remotely has not only given more freedom but has also empowered the achievement of a healthier work-life balance for me and the team."

Jacey Scott, Head of Revenues and Benefits