At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Cardiff's growth and transformation as its next Chief Executive.
- Company: Join a dynamic council committed to making a real impact in the capital city.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £208,116 with opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a confident team ready to tackle challenges and seize opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Cardiff and drive meaningful change in a vibrant city.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in complex organisations and a commitment to public service values.
Salary: £208,116 per annum (April 2026 pay award pending)
Location: Cardiff (Caerdydd)
Job Type: Full Time
Overview:
Lead the next chapter of a capital city on the rise. Cardiff stands tall as the capital city of Wales, a major Core City and a place of growing national confidence. Over recent years, under its current leadership, the Council has stabilised, strengthened and earned recognition as a good, ambitious organisation with a can-do culture. The foundations are firm. The organisation is confident. The ambition is clear. Now, Cardiff is ready for its next Chief Executive and are seeking a leader who will build on this success and support the political administration to take the city to the next level.
A city with momentum and unfinished business. Cardiff is a city of opportunity, energy and diversity, home to more than 383,000 residents and a workforce of 15,000 people delivering over 700 vital services every day. Major regeneration, economic growth and cultural vibrancy sit alongside real pressures: rising demand, financial constraint, inequality, climate responsibility and the increasing expectations of citizens. Our challenge is not whether we can lead change, it is whether we can sustain it, deepen it and deliver it at scale.
Responsibilities:
- Consolidate and extend the progress made in recent years.
- Translate political ambition into delivery that residents can see and feel.
- Ensure Cardiff continues to perform as a confident capital city and Core City.
- Lead transformation that is bold, inclusive and financially sustainable.
- A role of substance, influence and visibility.
Qualifications:
- Outstanding, experienced and resilient Chief Executive with a proven track record of leading complex, politically-led organisations through change and transformation.
- Gravitas and authenticity, with the ability to command trust across political boundaries.
- A strong delivery mindset, grounded in sound governance and financial stewardship.
- The confidence to challenge constructively and the skill to unite people behind a shared direction.
- A deep commitment to equality, inclusion and public service values.
- Ability to thrive in a Member-led, professionally-managed and policy-driven environment.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Gary Evans (07809 195 593) or Delicia Coutinho (07741 264 892) at GatenbySanderson or for further information visit www.gatenbysanderson.com/job/GSE132046.
Closing date: 10 June 2026 12:00pm
Chief Executive (Full Time) in Cardiff employer: New Start
As a leading employer in Cardiff, we offer an exceptional opportunity for the next Chief Executive to shape the future of our vibrant capital city. Our organisation is built on a strong foundation of ambition and a can-do culture, providing a supportive work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth and a focus on inclusivity, we empower our leaders to make a tangible impact on the community while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a dynamic urban setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive (Full Time) in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in your industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the real interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive (Full Time) in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see your personality and passion for the role. Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us why you’re excited about leading Cardiff into its next chapter!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Chief Executive role. Highlight your experience in leading complex organisations and how it aligns with our vision for Cardiff. We love seeing how you connect your past achievements to our future goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We’re looking for a leader who can inspire and unite people. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership style and how you've successfully navigated change in previous roles. Share examples that show your gravitas and ability to build trust across political boundaries.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in Cardiff.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Start
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Cardiff's recent developments and challenges. Understand the political landscape and how it impacts the role of Chief Executive. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your commitment and readiness to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership philosophy and how you've successfully led complex organisations through change. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to unite teams and drive transformation in a politically sensitive environment.
✨Engage with the Vision
Articulate how you plan to build on Cardiff's successes and translate political ambitions into tangible outcomes. Show enthusiasm for the city's potential and be ready to share innovative ideas that align with its goals for growth and inclusivity.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the city's needs. Inquire about the current challenges facing the council and how you can contribute to overcoming them. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in the position.
