Jobs
Assistant Director of Governance, People & Performance (Monitoring Officer)
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Salary
c.£95,000
Expires
29/03/2026
Company
Arun District Council
Location
Littlehampton, West Sussex
Job Type
Full Time
Arun District Council is entering one of the most significant and exciting periods in its recent history, and we are looking for an exceptional Assistant Director of Governance, People & Performance (Monitoring Officer) to help shape what comes next.
Local government reorganisation across our region is creating a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to influence the design, culture and operating principles of a future authority. At Arun, we are embracing this moment with clarity, purpose and collaboration. We are working constructively with partners across West Sussex, strengthening relationships and building a shared understanding of the challenges and possibilities ahead.
Joining us now means stepping into a role with genuine impact. As a key member of our Corporate Leadership Team, and part of the “Golden Triangle” alongside the Chief Executive and Section 151 Officer, you will ensure that our governance, people frameworks and performance systems are robust, future‑focused, and aligned with our ambition. You will bring professional authority, good judgement, and the confidence to provide clear advice in a politically aware environment.
You will lead a diverse, high‑performing portfolio including Legal Services, Electoral Services, Committee Services, People Services, Information Governance, Policy & Performance, Communications, and Corporate Complaints. You will also act as the Council’s Monitoring Officer and Data Protection Officer, ensuring compliance, integrity and high standards of governance at all levels.
About you
This is a role for a strategic leader who can inspire, empower and motivate teams; someone who understands how to create the conditions for people to thrive and deliver their best work. You will champion our values of respect, integrity, accountability, clarity and kindness, and help embed a culture where people feel supported, listened to, and able to contribute meaningfully during a time of change.
Your work will influence the design and implementation of new service models, the modernisation of our workforce, and the development of a more resilient, agile organisation. You will play a central role in preparing our people, systems and governance arrangements for whatever new structures emerge.
We are looking for a qualified legal professional, ideally already with experience in the Monitoring Officer role or working as Deputy Monitoring Officer, and with a strong track record of leading services, managing performance, shaping corporate strategy and delivering change. Political awareness, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build trust quickly are essential.
This is an exceptional professional opportunity, career‑defining in scope, ambition and impact. If you are motivated by purposeful public service, committed to high standards, and excited by the chance to influence the future of local government in West Sussex, we would be delighted to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion about your suitability, please contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson;
* Frazer Thouard (thouard@gatenbysanderson.com)
* Kembi Coakelin (coakelin@gatenbysanderson.com)
* Sandra Jones (jones@gatenbysanderson.com).
Closing date: 11:55pm - Sunday 29th March 2026
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
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