Head Of Paid Service

Description:

The City of York Council is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service to provide dynamic, visible, and strategic leadership across the council and the city. This role is central to shaping York’s future, ensuring the delivery of high-performing, people-focused services that are innovative, inclusive, and provide value for money.

As Chief Executive, you will lead the Corporate Management Team responsible for key services such as housing, social care, education, environment, and economic development. You will act as the principal policy adviser to the council and represent York’s interests at regional, national, and international levels. This is a unique opportunity to drive culture transformation, champion inclusivity, and foster collaboration within and beyond the organisation, particularly as York maximises opportunities through devolution and its partnership with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide dynamic, strategic leadership to the council and city.

• Oversee corporate services including housing, social care, education, environment, and economic development.

• Act as principal policy adviser and represent York at various levels.

• Champion transformation, drive cultural change, and foster collaboration.

• Manage emergency planning and lead the council’s response in major incidents.

• Serve as the Returning Officer for all elections.

Requirements:

• Proven track record of leading change at scale in a complex political environment.

• Strong sense of public service and values-led leadership.

• Extensive experience in strategic leadership and working with elected members.

• Deep understanding of local government and the wider public service economy.

• Commitment to inclusive growth, sustainability, and equity.

• Exceptional emotional intelligence, courage, resilience, and the ability to inspire trust.

About York:

York is one of the UK’s most historic yet dynamic cities—a heritage capital, innovation hub, university city, and national exemplar of sustainable urban development. With a Local Plan in place, major developments like York Central progressing, and devolved powers emerging, this is a pivotal moment for the city.

Key Dates:

• Closing Date: 5 September 2025

• Longlisting: w/c 15 September 2025

• Technical Interviews: 17 & 26 September 2025

• Panel Interviews: w/c 13 October 2025

• Final Member Interview: w/c 20 October 2025

• Start Date / Handover Period: March/April 2026