Highway Asset Manager (Contracts)
- Exeter, Devon
- Full Time
- £58,310 per annum
1 x Permanent (Full Time 37 hours per week)
1 x Fixed Term 1 Year (Full Time 37 hours per week)
Do you have the leadership, technical expertise, and strategic insight to shape the future of Devon’s £12bn highway network?
Are you experienced in delivering large-scale infrastructure programmes that keep communities connected and safe?
Devon County Council is seeking forward‑thinking Highway Asset Managers (Contracts) to lead the development and delivery of highway maintenance programmes across our extensive and diverse network—one of the largest in the UK. These senior roles are pivotal in ensuring our highways remain safe, resilient, and fit for the future.
About the role
You will lead the countywide delivery of revenue and capital highway programmes, turning asset intelligence into efficient, cost‑effective operational delivery. As part of the Asset Management Group, you will steer procurement activity, manage contract performance, oversee programme delivery and ensure statutory compliance.
You will also provide direct line management to Principal Engineers and multidisciplinary delivery teams, working collaboratively with internal specialists, consultants, contractors, elected Members and the public.
These posts will assist with increased workloads resulting from an expanding highway maintenance programme. In addition to a permanent full-time post, there is also an opportunity to fulfil a one-year fixed term appointment.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the strategic and operational delivery of annual highway maintenance programmes.
- Lead the technical development of the future highway maintenance contracts
- Oversee contract and programme performance, ensuring safety, quality and efficiency.
- Manage and develop engineering teams, driving a high‑performance culture.
- Act as a key liaison with Members, contractors, consultants and the public.
- Translate strategic objectives into procurement solutions and deliverable programmes.
- Support compliance in risk management, business continuity, health and safety and CDM regulations.
- Champion the use of digital tools and data‑driven innovation to enhance service delivery.
About you
You will be an influential and motivated leader with:
- Chartered Engineer status (ICE or equivalent Engineering Council).
- Proven experience managing large‑scale infrastructure programmes.
- Strong communication, stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.
- A collaborative leadership approach, able to inspire and guide technical teams.
- In‑depth knowledge of highways legislation, CDM regulations and asset management principles.
- Experience in financial management and business case development.
Desirable qualities:
- Experience in emergency planning.
- Knowledge of intelligent transport systems and digital delivery tools.
- Confidence working within a political environment and presenting to senior stakeholders.
Why join us?
- Impact at scale: Help manage and improve a £12bn transport asset supporting residents, businesses and visitors across Devon.
- Leadership influence: Play a key role in shaping long‑term strategy within a collaborative, forward‑thinking service.
- Professional development: Opportunities to lead highway programmes and contribute to policy, innovation and service improvement.
- Values‑driven culture: Join an organisation committed to inclusion, continuous improvement and high‑quality public service.
Interview Date: 25 March 2026
For an informal discussion please contact Joe Deasy joe.deasy@devon.gov.uk
How to apply
Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
Please click Apply Now to see the Job Description.
- DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
- Happy to Talk Flexible Working - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
- We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
- This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
- Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
- For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
- We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work is required. For further guidance on right to work in the UK, please visit: Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
Reference: REQ009330