At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformation and drive high-quality services for the council.
- Company: Join a dynamic local government team in Croydon.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful role, and opportunity for career growth.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the borough and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience and strong political acumen required.
The predicted salary is between 151848 - 157898 £ per year.
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.
Responsibilities
- 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.
Assistant Chief Executive in London employer: Adecco
As an employer, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our leaders to drive meaningful change within the community. Located in Croydon, this role offers the unique opportunity to influence public service delivery while working alongside dedicated professionals committed to enhancing resident experiences. With a focus on professional development and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, we provide a supportive environment where your leadership can truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Chief Executive in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in local government or similar sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people know you’re on the hunt for an Assistant Chief Executive role, the better your chances!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's Renewal Improvement Plan. Understand their goals and challenges, and think about how your experience can help them achieve their vision. Tailor your responses to show you’re the perfect fit for driving transformation.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams through change and improved services. Highlight your financial management experience and how you’ve ensured compliance and value for money in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you throughout the process, so take advantage of all the resources we offer to help you land that dream job.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Chief Executive in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience that aligns with the role. We want to see how your skills can drive transformation and support the council's goals.
Showcase Leadership Experience:This role is all about leadership, so don’t hold back! Share specific examples of how you've inspired teams and led significant change in previous roles. We love a good success story!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Assistant Chief Executive and the responsibilities that come with it. Familiarise yourself with the council's Renewal Improvement Plan and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in driving transformation and managing large teams. Be ready to discuss how you've inspired and developed high-performing teams in previous roles.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Since this role involves working closely with elected Members, brush up on your political acumen. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated complex governance structures and built relationships with stakeholders in a local government context.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
Given the focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, think about how you've championed these values in your past roles. Prepare to share specific initiatives or strategies you've implemented to promote a diverse and inclusive environment.
