Interim Strategic Development Lead, Generalist – Greater Essex Combined County Authority

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.

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. Closing date for applications: 14th December 2025 at 23:59pm.