At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the new Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority, shaping its vision and operations.
- Company: Join HEYCA, a pioneering authority driving transformation in Hull and East Yorkshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy a unique opportunity to influence change with a £400 million investment fund.
- Other info: This role is politically restricted and based full-time in Hull City Centre.
- Why this job: Be part of a start-up authority, making a real impact on local communities and future generations.
- Qualifications: Seeking a dynamic leader with strategic insight and experience in complex environments.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority (HEYCA) represents a bold new chapter in the region’s history. Formed through the UK Government’s devolution agenda, HEYCA is a Strategic Authority with significant powers and funding to drive transformation across Hull and East Yorkshire. With a £400 million investment fund over 30 years, and additional capital and revenue funding already secured including for housing, transport, regeneration and post-19 training/skills HEYCA is uniquely positioned to deliver lasting change.
The region is defined by its proud industrial and maritime heritage, vibrant urban centres, and stunning rural and coastal landscapes. HEYCA brings together Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council in a formal partnership, building on years of collaboration and shared ambition. The Authority is committed to inclusive growth, clean innovation, and ensuring that every community benefits from the opportunities devolution brings.
Under the leadership of the region’s first directly elected Mayor, Luke Campbell MBE, elected in May 2025, HEYCA will deliver priorities to create a more prosperous region for everyone who lives here, including:
- Securing more public and private sector investment for a previously underfunded region
- Enhanced transport and digital connectivity
- Affordable housing and regeneration
- Job creation and skills development
- Health and wellbeing
- Opportunities for young people
- Increasing local people’s involvement in decision-making
This is a rare opportunity to join a start-up Combined Authority at its inception — shaping its culture, systems, and impact from the ground up.
About the Role
This is a career-defining opportunity to become the inauguralChief Executive and Head of Paid Service of HEYCA. You will be the most senior officer of the Authority, reporting directly to the Mayor and the HEYCA Board, and responsible for turning vision into reality.
You will lead the organisation through its formative years, establishing its strategic direction, operational effectiveness, and a values-led culture. You will be the Mayor’s principal adviser, helping to shape policy and delivery across all devolved functions, and acting as the key interface with central government under the “devolution by default” principle.
Your leadership will be instrumental in:
- Designing and scaling HEYCA’s teams, systems, and services
- Building a high-performing, collaborative organisation
- Driving innovation in areas such as new clean energy production and energy security, AI and digital transformation, and place-based delivery
- Forging strong partnerships across government, business, education, the third sector and with local people
- Representing HEYCA at regional, national, and international levels
This role demands strategic vision, political acumen, and a deep commitment to public service. You will be responsible for embedding robust governance, financial stewardship, and a culture of continuous improvement.
About the Candidate
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader who can bring credibility, energy, and strategic insight to this once-in-a-generation opportunity. You will be a values-led individual with a passion for place-based leadership and a track record of delivering transformation in complex environments.
We are genuinely open to, and actively interested in candidates from a wide range of professional backgrounds. Whether your experience is rooted in public service, the commercial sector, or spans both, what matters most is your ability to lead with purpose, navigate complexity, and deliver lasting impact for the region.
As the inaugural Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, you will be:
- A strategic thinker with the ability to translate long-term regional ambitions into practical delivery plans.
- A collaborative leader who can build trust and alignment across diverse stakeholders.
- Politically astute and personally credible, able to navigate sensitive environments with integrity.
- Resilient and emotionally intelligent , with the ability to lead through ambiguity and change.
- Committed to inclusive leadership , equity, and public service excellence.
Essential Skills and Experience:
Proven experience as a senior strategic leader in a complex political and stakeholder environment.
- Experience working within or alongside Strategic Authorities, combined authorities, or central government departments involved in devolution policy.
- Track record of delivering organisational transformation and managing public services at scale.
- Deep understanding of place-based leadership and the levers of economic growth.
- Strong commercial awareness and financial management capabilities.
- Exceptional partnership working and influencing skills across sectors and government levels.
Knowledge and Qualifications:
Deep understanding of the Hull and East Yorkshire region, including its opportunities and challenges.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent relevant experience.
- Evidence of continuing professional development.
- Membership of a relevant professional body is desirable.
The role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (as amended) and will be based full-time in Hull City Centre.
For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact:
Marek Dobrowolski, Partner
D:+44 121 654 5912
M:+44 779 352 9576
Corinne Attwood, Senior Researcher
D: +44 121 654 5954
Ruth Hernandez Turner, Principal Researcher
D: +44 121 654 5936
Closing date for applications is: Sunday 31 st August, 2025
Downloadable Content
To apply please click theApply Now link below.
#J-18808-LjbffrChief Executive and Head of Paid Service in Kingston upon Hull employer: Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority
Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority (HEYCA) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of a region rich in industrial heritage and natural beauty. With a commitment to inclusive growth and innovation, HEYCA fosters a collaborative work culture that empowers employees to drive meaningful change while benefiting from professional development opportunities and a supportive environment. As part of a start-up authority, you will play a pivotal role in establishing systems and services that will have a lasting impact on the community.
Contact Details:
Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service in Kingston upon Hull
✨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 Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
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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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service in Kingston upon Hull
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 Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority 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 Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority, 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 Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority.
