Westminster Council Seeks Heating Specialist for £100,000 Annual Salary
Westminster City Council has advertised a high-profile position offering a salary of up to £100,000 per year for a candidate with specialized engineering expertise. The new Head of Housing Heat Networks will be responsible for leading the strategic direction, improvement, and regulatory readiness of the council's housing-led heat networks. This role involves overseeing heating systems across approximately 7,000 homes within the borough, making it a critical position for ensuring reliable and efficient heating services for residents.
Focus on Pimlico District Heating Undertaking and Broader Networks
The successful applicant will work closely with colleagues managing the 'Future of PDHU' programme, which addresses the controversial Pimlico District Heating Undertaking. However, the council has clarified that this is not a PDHU-specific role. Instead, it encompasses strategic oversight for all heat networks serving residential properties in Westminster. The job advertisement emphasizes guiding preparations for new regulations, improving technical performance, strengthening customer protection, and supporting decarbonization efforts in line with the council's sustainability goals.
Background on Heating System Challenges and Resident Concerns
This recruitment comes amid ongoing issues with aging heating infrastructure, particularly in Pimlico estates like Churchill Gardens, Abbots Manor, Lillington and Longmore Gardens, and Russell House. The council has yet to select a replacement for the 70-year-old heating system in these areas. In November, residents celebrated a temporary victory when the council halted upgrade plans following months of complaints. Locals expressed fears about potentially exorbitant costs, with estimates suggesting leaseholders of four-bedroom flats could face bills exceeding £66,000 for fixes. The council noted these figures were preliminary estimates only.
Salary Comparison and Council Justification
With an estimated salary of £98,000, this role ranks among the highest-paid positions at Westminster City Council. For context, Council Chief Executive Stuart Love earns £238,000 annually, according to the 2025 Senior Pay Structure Chart. The Director of Clean Energy and Heat Networks receives between £155,000 and £160,000 per year, while the Head of Governance and Councillor Liaison is paid £90,000 to £95,000. A council spokesperson defended the salary, stating it reflects the need for an outstanding candidate with specialist engineering knowledge and management skills to lead a team providing essential services to residents.
Role Responsibilities and Recruitment Process
The Head of Housing Heat Networks will have a broad remit, including ensuring technical, operational, and strategic plans align across the council. Key duties involve managing heat network performance, enhancing customer protection, and driving decarbonization initiatives. The council has committed to an open and transparent recruitment process, emphasizing the importance of this role in delivering efficient heating to thousands of households. As Westminster continues to address heating challenges and sustainability targets, this position represents a significant step in modernizing its infrastructure and services.
