At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Cumberland Council, driving strategic vision and delivering high-quality outcomes for residents.
- Company: Cumberland Council, a newly formed authority focused on community wellbeing and public service excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £188,227, relocation package, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking council committed to positive change across diverse communities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local governance and community development while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience in the public sector and a strong track record of improvement.
The predicted salary is between 188227 - 188227 £ per year.
Chief Executive – Cumberland Council
Working closely with elected Members, Officers and key partners, you will provide corporate and strategic leadership to the Council, setting and delivering a clear, sustainable and outcome‑focused vision for Cumberland and its residents.
You will ensure the Council remains financially resilient, high‑performing and well‑governed, and that statutory responsibilities are met alongside place‑based ambitions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a strong and established senior leadership team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.
- Maintain delivery of sustainable, high‑quality outcomes for residents and communities across Cumberland within a complex and evolving local government landscape.
- Play a central role in the continued development and maturity of the Council, ensuring it operates as a financially resilient, well‑governed and high‑performing authority.
- Develop and maintain partnerships, build trust, inspire others and work collaboratively with Members, staff, communities and partners.
- Act as the Council's Returning Officer and Electoral Registration Officer (ERO), carrying responsibility for the lawful conduct of elections and the maintenance of the electoral register.
- Ensure political neutrality, comply with all statutory requirements relating to politically restricted posts, and submit enhanced DBS checks as required.
- Deliver modern, agile, inclusive and customer‑focused services, supporting inclusive growth and improving outcomes for all residents.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Extensive experience in senior leadership within public sector or a comparable complex environment.
- Strong track record in delivering meaningful organisational and service improvement.
- Ability to balance ambition with pragmatism, demonstrating a visible, authentic and values‑driven leadership style.
- Political awareness and the capacity to lead a politically restricted post with the highest standards of professional and political impartiality.
- Applicants must declare any relationships with elected Members or officers and provide a written disclosure of the nature of those relationships.
- Full Enhanced DBS check required; facilitated by the Council during appointment.
Salary and Benefits
- Annual salary: £188,227 (Pending JNC for Chief Executive Pay Award 2026/2027) plus local government terms and conditions.
- Relocation package: up to £8,000 (subject to eligibility).
- Blank contractual hours – 37 hours per week on a full‑time basis.
- About Cumberland Council
Formed in April 2023 through Local Government Reorganisation, Cumberland Council serves a diverse geography comprising urban, rural and coastal communities across north‑west England.
The Council is committed to creating positive health and wellbeing outcomes, supporting economic prosperity, and delivering high‑quality public services for a population living in a safe, award‑winning environment.
Application Notes
Applications received after the closing date cannot be accepted.
We welcome applications from serving Chief Executives and experienced senior leaders ready to take the next step in their career.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Chief Executive (Head of Paid Service) employer: Cumbria County Council
Cumbria County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and community service. As part of the Public Protection & Housing Team in Carlisle, you will have access to professional development opportunities and a chance to make a meaningful impact on local residents' lives while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive (Head of Paid Service)
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Cumbria County Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Cumbria County Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive (Head of Paid Service)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Cumbria County Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumbria County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Cumbria County Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Cumbria County Council.
