Sharper Consulting Services is seeking an experienced Interim Licensing Manager to provide short-term operational and leadership cover within a small but busy licensing service in Hertfordshire. The role will focus on day-to-day management, maintaining service continuity, and supporting officers across the full range of licensing functions.
This is a hands-on role suited to someone comfortable stepping into an active service with minimal handover.
* Full time hours - Hybrid working (typically 2–3 days on site)
* Contract: Initial 3 months (rolling)
* £45 - £55 Per Hour (DOE)
Key Responsibilities
* Provide interim management of the Licensing Team, including supervision of officers and admin support
* Oversee delivery of statutory licensing functions, including:
* Alcohol & entertainment licensing
* Taxi & private hire licensing
* Gambling licensing
* Street trading
* Scrap metal licensing
* Act as point of escalation for complex cases, complaints and member enquiries
* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures
* Support committee processes, hearings and decision-making where required
* Liaise with legal services, enforcement, environmental health and external stakeholders
* Maintain performance, workflow and service standards during the interim period
Essential Requirements
* Significant experience working within local authority licensing services
* Strong working knowledge of core licensing regimes (alcohol, taxi, gambling, street trading etc.)
* Experience managing or acting as lead officer within a licensing team
* Confident decision-maker with a pragmatic, solution-focused approach
* Ability to step into a live caseload and service environment quickly
Desirable
* Previous experience as a Licensing Manager / Senior Licensing Officer
* Experience attending or advising Licensing Committees and Sub-Committees
* Familiarity with hybrid working arrangements in a local authority setting