This is a unique opportunity to lead a council at the heart of a devolution deal and on the cusp of transformative change across transport, housing, economic development, and health. You will provide dynamic, visible, and strategic leadership across the council and city, and work closely with elected members, partners, and communities to ensure high-performing, people-focused services that are innovative, inclusive, and value for money.
About the role
As Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, you will provide dynamic, visible, and strategic leadership across the council and city. You will work closely with elected members, partners, and communities to ensure high-performing, people-focused services that are innovative, inclusive, and value for money.
Chief Executive
- Salary: £177,821 per annum + Returning Officer Fee
- Closing date: 5 September 2025 at 11.59pm
- Interviews: Application assessment will consist of technical interviews week commencing 22 September 2025 and panel interview week commencing 13 October 2025
- Final interviews: week commencing 20 October 2025
As Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, you will provide dynamic, visible, and strategic leadership across the council and city. You will work closely with elected members, partners, and communities to ensure high-performing, people-focused services that are innovative, inclusive, and value for money.
You will oversee a Corporate Management Team delivering key services across housing, social care, education, environment, and economic development. You will act as principal policy adviser to the council and represent York’s voice and interests at regional, national, and international levels.
You will champion transformation, drive culture change, and foster collaboration within and beyond the organisation, particularly as we maximise the opportunities offered through devolution and our partnership with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
To discuss the role, contact Julie Towers via email julie.towers@penna.com or telephone 07764 791736.
What we're looking for
We are seeking an outstanding leader with a proven track record of leading change at scale in a complex political environment. You will bring:
- a strong sense of public service, purpose and values-led leadership
- substantial experience of strategic leadership and working with elected members
- deep understanding of the local government landscape and the broader public service economy
- a commitment to inclusive growth, sustainability and equity
- a collaborative approach with emotional intelligence, courage, and resilience
- an ability to inspire trust, drive performance, and develop strong relationships with stakeholders
You will also be responsible for emergency planning and leading the council’s response in major incidents, as well as serving as the Returning Officer for all elections.
Read the Chief Executive job description.
Find more information and apply online
This position is classified as a politically restricted post under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. This means that the postholder is disqualified from holding political office (for example, cannot be an MP or councillor) and from certain political activities to ensure impartiality.
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