Simon Howick

Simon Howick is Managing Director of Oxford Direct Services (ODS), a local authority trading company delivering a range of public and commercial services across Oxford and the Thames Valley. With a £90 million turnover and around 550 staff, ODS provides services including construction, building maintenance, civil engineering, waste and recycling, parks and open spaces, and fleet management.

Simon has led ODS since its incorporation, focusing on public value, commercial discipline, and social impact. Under his leadership, ODS has delivered a sum approaching £50 million in shareholder value, doubled its commercial revenue, and launched a £25 million property services enterprise. Profits are reinvested into public services and communities.

He was a founding board member of the LATCo Network and brings over 25 years’ experience in public sector leadership and transformation. Previously, he held senior roles at Oxford City Council, including Chief HR Officer, where he led major organisational change and introduced the Oxford Living Wage.