Top five interview questions Head of Housing candidates need to prepare for

Whether you’re an experienced senior housing professional looking for your next leadership role, or you’re preparing to step up into a Head of Housing position, acing the interview is key to securing the role. 

At Sellick Partnership, we work closely with public sector organisations and housing organisations across the UK, and we understand exactly what employers are looking for when hiring for this critical role.

To help you prepare, we’ve pulled together the top five interview questions Head of Housing candidates are likely to face – along with tips on how to approach them.

• What is your approach to delivering high-quality, customer-focused housing services?

This question assesses your ability to lead with a resident-first mindset while balancing operational effectiveness. Interviewers want to know how you ensure service delivery meets both strategic goals and community needs. 

Top tip: Use specific examples to demonstrate how you’ve improved customer satisfaction or implemented service enhancements. Mention KPIs, tenant feedback or quality assurance frameworks where possible.

• How do you manage large, multi-disciplinary teams and foster a culture of performance and accountability?

As a Head of Housing, you’ll be responsible for leading diverse teams – from Housing Officers to tenancy support and compliance. Employers want to understand your leadership style and how you empower teams to deliver results.

Top tip: Talk about team structures you've managed, any performance management frameworks you've used, and how you've developed talent within your teams.

• Can you provide an example of how you’ve led a significant change or transformation project within a housing service?

This question tests your strategic thinking and change management skills. Housing services are constantly evolving – from legislative changes to digital transformation and tenant engagement strategies.

Top tip: Structure your answer using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Emphasise your leadership, stakeholder engagement, and ability to deliver results within tight budgets or regulatory frameworks.

• How do you ensure compliance with housing legislation, health and safety standards, and regulatory requirements?

Compliance is a key priority for any Head of Housing. Interviewers will want to know how you keep up to date with changes in legislation, and how you translate these into policies, procedures, and day-to-day operations.

Top tip: Mention frameworks like the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), relevant housing legislation, or regulatory bodies such as the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH). Share how you’ve embedded compliance into service delivery.

• What’s your strategy for working with external partners, elected members, and community stakeholders?

This role requires strong collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Employers will want to see your ability to build trust, communicate effectively, and influence at a senior level.

Top tip: Highlight partnerships you’ve built across local authorities, housing associations, third-sector organisations, or the wider community. Discuss your communication style and any successful initiatives you’ve led through collaboration.

Final thoughts

Preparing for a Head of Housing interview means thinking strategically and being ready to demonstrate how your leadership has made a tangible impact. Tailor your answers to the organisation’s key priorities – whether that’s improving tenant outcomes, meeting compliance standards, or driving innovation in service delivery.

If you’re looking for your next opportunity in housing leadership, our team at Sellick Partnership can help. We work with a range of public sector and housing organisations, and can provide expert advice, interview preparation, and access to exclusive roles.

Get in touch with our Housing recruitment specialists, or browse our latest jobs today.