Assistant Chief Executive
Location: Croydon
Salary: £151,848 - £157,898
Contract: Fixed Term Contract until December 2026 (with potential extension)
About the Role
We are seeking an exceptional and highly experienced leader to join our client as our Assistant Chief Executive. This is a critical, high-profile role at the heart of the organisation, responsible for driving transformation, supporting the council's Renewal Improvement Plan, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, financially sustainable services.
As a key member of the Corporate Management Team, you will work closely with the Chief Executive, Corporate Directors and elected Members to shape the future of the borough, embedding a "One Council" approach and leading significant organisational and cultural change.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Assistant Chief Executive will:
Provide strategic leadership across a broad portfolio including:
Public Health (in partnership with the Director of Public Health)
Digital, ICT and cyber security
Resident access and customer services
Information governance (FOI, SAR, GDPR)
Corporate complaints and oversight of Ombudsman/ICO liaison
Communications and engagement (internal and external)
Human Resources, organisational development and workforce planning
Elections, Mayor's Office support, and Coroner's Service support
Policy, business intelligence, performance management
Programme & project management, resilience and emergency planning
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Service quality, productivity improvement and transformation
Lead delivery of the Renewal Improvement Plan, ensuring robust programme management and measurable outcomes
Provide high-quality professional advice to:
Leader and Cabinet
Scrutiny & Overview Committee
Audit, Ethics and other council committees
Drive the development and implementation of corporate strategies, policies and performance frameworks
Lead resident-focused service transformation, enhancing digital access and customer experience
Champion transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement across all services
Oversee significant budgets, ensuring financial sustainability, compliance and value for money
Lead and inspire a large, multi-disciplinary directorate, with direct line management of senior leaders
Act as a key partner across local, regional and national networks, including London-wide bodies and voluntary sector organisations
Play a critical role in emergency planning and response, including Gold command and deputising for the Chief Executive where required
About You
We are looking for a visionary, collaborative and values-driven leader with:
Proven experience operating at senior executive level within a complex organisation (local government or similar)
Previous experience working within London at CEO level
A track record of delivering large-scale transformation and improvement programmes
Strong political acumen and experience working with Members and governance structures
Expertise across corporate services including HR, digital, communications, policy or performance
Financial leadership experience, including managing large budgets and driving savings programmes
Outstanding leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, influence and develop high-performing teams
A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
A passion for public service and improving outcomes for residents
Additional Information
This role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989
The postholder must uphold the Nolan Principles of Public Life: Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty and Leadership
The role requires flexibility, including occasional evenings, weekends, and emergency response duties
This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in one of London's most ambitious transformation programmes. You will help shape a financially stable, resident-focused council and make a lasting impact.
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