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.
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.
About York
York is one of the UK’s most historic and best-loved cities, and also one of its most dynamic. As well as being a heritage capital, we are an innovation hub, a university city, a place of culture and creativity, and a national exemplar of sustainable urban development.
With a long-term vision for inclusive growth, a Local Plan now in place, major developments like York Central progressing, and devolved powers coming onstream, this is a moment of genuine opportunity. We are looking for a Chief Executive who can help us seize that moment and deliver lasting, meaningful change.
Next steps
If you believe leadership can unlock a city’s full potential, we would love to hear from you.
Join us and help shape the future of York—a city of hope, ambition, and opportunity for all.
For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact:
Julie Towers on 07764 791736 or julie.towers@penna.com
Kelly Ridley on 07709 512415 or kelly.ridley@penna.com
To more information and details on how to apply visit: https://yorkceo.co.uk/how-to-apply/
Key dates:
Closing date: 5 September 2025
Technical Interviews: w/c 22 September 2025
Panel interviews: w/c 13 October 2025
Final Member interview: w/c 20 October 2025
Start date / handover period: March/April 2026
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