Chief Executive
Chief Executive
Essex is a county with a clear identity, a clear vision and a clear plan. As one of the largest UK local authorities, with significant diversity of people and communities, we offer a uniquely stimulating public service environment. Our track record was recently recognised with a top-three place in the latest IMPOWER index of councils’ productivity. And we’ve made a firm commitment that this is ‘Everyone’s Essex’ – everyone matters, and no one should be left behind.
The retirement of our Chief Executive, Gavin Jones, creates a once-in-a-career opportunity to lead a stand-out local authority with national importance. With a deep commitment to the prosperity and wellbeing of our residents, and an inspiring vision for our future, we’ve laid strong foundations over recent years, and we’re excited about what’s yet to come. We know that there are ways in which we can further refine our organisational model and operations to deliver more and better, and we’re ready to take the brave decisions that will get us there.
We’re looking for a new Chief Executive who both understands our ambition, and has the technical and personal skillset to help us achieve it. You’ll understand the concept of real stewardship of place and people, and will be motivated to leave at least as good a legacy as you will inherit. An exceptional leader of teams at all levels, you’ll know how to engage and inspire colleagues to get behind a collective plan. Equally, you need to be well (and extensively) connected to central government, policymakers and those with influence at the macro level. You’ll bring an impressive track record of shifting the dial on major issues, as well as the ambition and creativity to keep us at the forefront of the sector. A credible and energising leader – respected locally, regionally and nationally – you’ll be ready to play your part in the next chapter of our remarkable story.
“This has been the best job in the country... my successor will be leading an enviable organisation.”
Gavin Jones, retiring CEO, Essex County Council
For a confidential discussion about the role please contact:
Martin Tucker
Email: mtucker@faerfield.co.uk
Tel: 0121 312 3755
Rob Naylor
Email: rnaylor@faerfield.co.uk
Tel: 0121 312 3755
Indicative timetable:
Closing date for applications: Thursday 28 November 2024
Preliminary/Technical Interviews: Wednesday 4 December 2024 and Thursday 5 December 2024 (Via Teams)
Stakeholder Meetings: 16,17 and 18 December 2024 (Via Teams)
Final Interviews: Monday 13 January 2025 (Chelmsford)
Formal approval (at Full Council): Thursday 13 February 2025To apply:
To apply for this job please click on the Apply button below and fill out the requested information. When prompted, please submit your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than four sides of A4 each).
With your CV, please also provide the names and contact details of two referees, one of whom should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be contacted if you reach the final stages, and we will not contact referees without your permission.
Your supporting statement should express why you are interested in this role and what experience you can bring to the organisation. The statement should tackle the specific requirements of the role; outlining examples and outcomes showing how you meet those requirements.
Disability Confident
Please note we are a Disability Confident Employer so candidates who wish to be considered under the scheme and meet the essential criteria will automatically be invited to interview. Please note, that should you require any adjustments through the process, we will accommodate as much as possible. Please contact the recruitment team for further information if required.
