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- Tasks: Lead strategic development and drive innovation across multiple agencies in Greater Essex.
- Company: Join the Greater Essex Combined County Authority, a key player in regional governance.
- Benefits: Competitive pay up to £650 per day or £75,050 to £88,295 per annum.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping policies that benefit residents and businesses.
- Qualifications: Experience in public sector leadership and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and networking.
The predicted salary is between 75050 - 88295 £ per year.
Fixed Term, Full Time (Maximum 12 months) Temporary or FTC/Secondment
Location: Countywide
Closing Date: 14th December 2025
Salary information: Temporary up to £650 per day (umbrella, Inside IR35) or FTC/Secondment from £75,050 to £88,295 per annum
This role will play a critical part in ensuring the new Greater Essex Combined County Authority, one of the largest County Combined Authorities, is set up effectively, with the robust governance, strategies, policies and frameworks required to meet statutory and legal obligations. They will establish strong foundations that enable the organisation to accelerate its strategic priorities at pace. To achieve this, postholders will need to build effective relationships and networks across central and local government, partners, businesses and residents, and bring the business, commercial and political acumen needed to translate strategy into meaningful action.
Purpose of the Role:
- Lead strategy development for the assigned portfolio.
- Drive innovation, collaboration and delivery across multiple agencies.
- Build strong foundations and workstreams enabling GECCA to operate effectively.
- Shape and implement policy that delivers tangible outcomes for residents and businesses.
- Build partnerships and raise the profile of Greater Essex at a regional and national level, working across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to drive inward investment, secure funding from government, and ensure value for money in all financial commitments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership, setting vision and direction.
- Secure funding and investment.
- Build strong partnerships across the system.
- Lead long-term planning and integration of major initiatives.
- Contribute to GECCA’s organisational development.
- Deep professional expertise relevant to assigned portfolio.
- Proven leadership in complex public sector environments.
- Strong political awareness and communication skills.
- Ability to manage programmes, budgets and stakeholders effectively.
*Please note: All role dimensions (budget, line reports, etc) will be established and subject to change during the set-up stage of the interim Combined County Authority.
This role is being recruited on behalf of Southend-on-Sea City Council, Thurrock Council and Essex County Council. This appointment is being managed by Essex Shared Services.
Should you have any enquiries or would like to request a confidential discussion please contact Samantha Myddelton on (samantha.myddelton@essex.gov.uk 0333 013 0098) or Sadie Orwell (sadie.orwell@essex.gov.uk 0333 032 2356).
If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with Essex Shared Services at essexsharedservices@essex.gov.uk.
As part of the application process, you will be required to submit a CV and supporting statement. Click ‘APPLY’ to begin your application.
Closing date for applications: 14th December 2025 at 23:59pm.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Temporary
Job function: General Business
Industries: Government Administration
Interim Strategic Development Lead, Generalist – Greater Essex Combined County Authority employer: Essex County Council
Contact Detail:
Essex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Strategic Development Lead, Generalist – Greater Essex Combined County Authority
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and start networking! Attend local events, join relevant online forums, and connect with people in the industry. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers or partners, don’t hold back! Share your experiences and how they relate to the role. Use real examples to demonstrate your strategic thinking and leadership skills.
✨Follow Up
After any meeting or interview, make sure to follow up with a thank-you email. It shows your appreciation and keeps you on their radar. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job! We’re always looking for passionate individuals who can help us drive innovation and collaboration across Greater Essex.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Strategic Development Lead, Generalist – Greater Essex Combined County Authority
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Interim Strategic Development Lead. Highlight your experience in strategic leadership and partnership building, as these are key for this position.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Be specific and give examples!
Showcase Your Political Awareness: Given the nature of this role, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the political landscape. Mention any relevant experience you have in navigating complex public sector environments.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Strategic Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in strategic development concepts and frameworks. Brush up on the latest trends in governance and policy-making, especially those relevant to local government. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you can hit the ground running.
✨Build Your Network Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with key stakeholders in the Greater Essex area. Understand who the major players are in local government, businesses, and community organisations. Being able to reference these connections during your interview will show that you’re proactive and ready to build partnerships.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully led teams or projects in complex environments. Highlight your ability to manage programmes and budgets effectively, as well as your experience in securing funding. This will illustrate your capability to lead GECCA towards its strategic priorities.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Given the political awareness required for this role, be ready to discuss how you would navigate challenges and communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Good communication can set you apart from other candidates.