Head of Chief Executive\'s Office

Head of Chief Executive\’s Office Location: Castle Quay, Banbury Contract: Permanent Closing Date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59 Sellick Partnership is proud to be recruiting on behalf of Cherwell District Council for this exciting permanent opportunity to join the authority as Head of the Chief Executive\’s Office. This is a pivotal leadership position at the heart of the Council, directly supporting the Chief Executive and leading key corporate functions including strategy and policy, performance, communications, and executive support. The role requires a dynamic, strategic leader with proven experience of working within complex organisations and a record of delivering improvement, driving performance, and building high-performing teams. You will be a key member of the corporate leadership team, working closely with elected members, executive directors, heads of service and external partners. This role offers the chance to shape organisational culture, align services with strategic priorities, and make a significant impact for local communities. Key responsibilities of the Head of Chief Executive\’s Office role will include: Provide leadership to the Chief Executive\’s Office, including the Policy Development Officer, Performance Team Leader, Communications & Marketing Manager, and Executive Support Team Manager. Lead the delivery of strategy, policy, performance, communications, and executive support services across the Council. Support the Chief Executive with forward planning, prioritisation, and corporate coordination. Drive a culture of continuous improvement and organisational excellence. Build effective internal and external partnerships to deliver shared goals. Ensure governance, compliance, and risk management are embedded in all activities. Champion staff development, engagement, and wellbeing. Demonstrate high levels of energy and staff engagement within the Chief Executive Office and across the council, ensuring effective two-way engagement and high momentum is maintained for initiatives to be successfully deliveredRequired experience for the for the Head of Chief Executive\’s Office role: We are looking for an experienced, motivated and resilient leader who can inspire teams and navigate the political environment with sensitivity and professionalism. You will have: A proven track record of consistent and demonstrable achievement at a management level within an organisation of comparable scope and complexity. Experience of leading multi-disciplinary teams and delivering significant service improvements. Strong skills in strategy, policy, performance, communications and/or executive support. The ability to build strong relationships and influence at a senior level. A commitment to delivering excellent services for residents and communities. A high-level management qualification or equivalent professional experience is desirable.What\’s in it for you? This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of the organisation, directly supporting the Chief Executive and playing a key role in shaping the council\’s strategic direction. As Head of the Chief Executive\’s Office, you\’ll gain unparalleled insight into corporate leadership, lead high-impact projects, and influence decision-making at the highest level. It\’s a role that offers both visibility and variety – ideal for someone looking to elevate their profile and make a tangible difference. You\’ll be part of a progressive, values-led council that embraces innovation and collaboration. In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a supportive culture that invests in your professional growth and wellbeing, including: 33 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) Local Government Pension Scheme (15.9% employer contribution). Electric Vehicle and cycle to work salary sacrifice schemes. Annual flu vaccination and £25 eye test examination. Incremental pay award (awarded annually in April after one years\’ service). Flexible working policy. Town centre offices in Banbury, close to the train station, canal, and local amenities.How to apply If you have the skills, experience and ambition to take on this exciting opportunity, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please submit your CV via Sellick Partnership. You can visit our microsite to find out more: (url removed)/ or for a confidential conversation about the role, contact Daniella Pye at Sellick Partnership. As part of our application process, we will be requesting a CV and personal statement from each candidate. The personal statement (maximum 2,500 words) should outline your suitability for the role, including relevant skills, qualities, and experience, with reference to the criteria set out in the job description. Closing date: Sunday 19 October 2025, 23:59 Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances. Please note, our advertisements use years\’ experience, hourly rates, and salary levels purely as a guide and we assess applications based on the experience and skills evidenced on the CV. For information on how your personal details may be used by Sellick Partnership, please review our data processing notice on our website