Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service in Kingston upon Hull

This is an exceptional opportunity to play a central leadership role at the heart of Mayoral governance, helping shape and deliver the Mayor’s vision for Hull and East Yorkshire. We are now seeking an outstanding and politically astute leader to join us as Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service.

Working directly with the Mayor and HEYCA Executive Board, you will operate at Executive level across the organisation providing overall organisational leadership and accountability for the workforce, operating through the Senior Leadership Team and agreed line management structures. Ensuring effective organisational leadership, workforce management, performance, and development in line with statutory Head of Paid Service duties.

The postholder will act as the principal adviser to the Mayor and HEYCA Board, ensuring effective governance, policy development, service delivery, and stakeholder engagement across the region. The role will lead the development and growth of a high‑performing, values‑led organisation capable of driving strategic economic growth, the skills and jobs agenda, inward investment, housing and regeneration and regional transport strategies for residents and businesses across Hull and East Yorkshire.

This is a unique role within a developing Combined Authority, offering the opportunity to help shape how Mayoral leadership is translated into meaningful outcomes for communities, businesses and partners across Hull and East Yorkshire.

We are looking for an exceptional and credible executive leader with experience operating in complex, politically sensitive environments. You will bring significant experience of working at a senior level within the public sector, combined authorities, parliamentary settings or similarly high‑profile organisations. You will be comfortable advising elected leaders or senior executives and able to operate confidently at the interface between politics and corporate governance.

You will also demonstrate the following skills:

• Lead the Authority, shaping organisational culture, systems, structures, and strategic priorities.
• Act as Head of Paid Service, ensuring the Authority has the capacity, capability, culture and management arrangements needed to discharge its statutory and devolved functions effectively.
• Translate regional ambitions and devolution opportunities into practical and deliverable programmes.
• Act as the senior accountable officer for all HEYCA operations, ensuring effective governance, compliance, and stewardship of public resources.
• Develop strong and productive relationships with central government, local authorities, businesses, education providers, communities, and regional and national partners.
• Represent HEYCA regionally, nationally, and internationally to promote investment, influence policy, and secure opportunities for the region.
• Drive innovation and transformational change in areas including clean energy production, energy security, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and economic regeneration.
• Ensure inclusive growth, public service excellence, and continuous improvement are embedded across all functions of the Authority.
• Lead the Authority in turning the Mayor’s lawful priorities and the Board’s agreed strategy into clear delivery, measurable outcomes and visible benefits for Hull and East Yorkshire.

Most importantly, you will be committed to upholding the highest standards of governance, integrity and public service.

This is a rare opportunity to join a new and ambitious Combined Authority at a formative stage in its development. At HEYCA, you will have the opportunity to:

• Work at the centre of Mayoral leadership and regional governance.
• Shape how political priorities are translated into delivery and impact.
• Influence strategic direction across a growing organisation.
• Work within a collaborative and high‑performing leadership environment.
• Contribute to the future success and identity of Hull and East Yorkshire.