Jobs

Strategic Director Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

Salary: Competitive

Lead the biggest and most ambitious transformation Nottinghamshire has seen in a generation.

Nottinghamshire’s nine councils are embarking on a landmark Local Government Reorganisation that will reshape how services are delivered for over 1 million residents.

This is a defining moment, bringing together district, borough, county and city councils in a shared ambition to create a more responsive, sustainable and effective future for local government. This is a true partnership and system leadership implementation role, and the postholder will be required to work across organisational boundaries to be effective and deliver what is required for the people and businesses of Nottinghamshire.

The programme is grounded in a collaborative approach, with each council contributing insight, leadership and commitment to a transformation that will benefit communities across the whole of Nottinghamshire.

No LGR journey is easy but partners in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire have been working together to create an ambitious programme that builds on our history, whilst shaping the future landscape for local public services. Having made progress together through ‘no-regrets’ activities, we are now seeking an exceptional Strategic Director to lead this once‑in‑a‑generation change. It requires a leader who shares our ambition for the future, that can operate confidently across organisational and political boundaries, building trust, aligning priorities and ensuring that all councils’ voices are heard and reflected in the design and delivery 2 new unitary councils.

The Strategic Director will set the strategic direction for the programme, lead a robust and cohesive Programme Management Office operating across the entire Nottinghamshire landscape, and manage the complex programme of work required to deliver change at pace. The role will play a critical role in shaping the structures, governance, service models and enabling functions of the new authority. Success will be delivered through partnership working, transparent decision‑making and a deep understanding of the political, cultural and operational environment across all councils.

We are looking for a senior leader with a strong track record of delivering major, multi‑organisational transformation. You will bring political acumen, fortitude and resilience, with the ability to influence and inspire stakeholders at every level. Your experience of working within complex public‑sector environments will enable you to navigate the challenges of a high‑profile and fast‑moving programme while maintaining alignment across a diverse group of partners.

Transform the system. Shape the future. Lead the change.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting and rare opportunity to help shape the future system of Local Government in Nottinghamshire. While employed by Nottinghamshire County Council, you will be working to the collaborative partnership of all the authorities contributing to a future that strengthens local democracy, improves outcomes and delivers better value for residents.

You will benefit from the County Council’s strong employment offer, including flexible working, generous annual leave, wellbeing support, inclusive staff networks and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

To learn more about the role or have a confidential conversation, please visit https://nottinghamshireseniorleadership.co.uk or contact our consultants at Penna.

• Ali Tasker on 07514 728114 or email: ali.tasker@penna.com
• Rachael Morris on 07840 711217 or email: rachael.morris@penna.com
• Julie Towers on 07764 791736 or email: julie.towers@penna.com

Closing date: 11:59pm, 23 July 2026

Shortlisting: 28 July 2026

Final Panel Interview: 21 August 2026

How to Apply

1. Click “Apply”
2. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
3. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
4. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
5. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
6. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
7. If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

South Worcestershire Building Control Partnership

Senior Building Control Surveyor

£45,091 - £49,282 per annum plus £4,000 Market Forces Supplement

South Worcester Building Control Partnership brings together the Building Control services of Malvern Hills District Council, Worcester City Council and Wychavon District Council into one Partnership, sharing resources and expertise to provide a modern, flexible and customer focused local authority Building Control Service.

As a senior member of the team, you will maintain your own caseload of applications for Building Regulations approval including some complex and challenging projects within your registration class. You will also, where required, assist supervising Class 1 RBI’s and provide support to the Head of Building Control. You will manage relationships between the Council and developers on a range of development proposals, providing an efficient and effective building control service and representing the service on a wide range of new and exciting projects.

The successful candidate will be a self-motivated with aspirations to develop the service further. You will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills and be able to demonstrate enthusiasm and a strong track record in team leadership.

You will be required to liaise with members of the public or their agents, so you will need to be comfortable working away from the office and be confident when dealing with customers. 

In South Worcestershire Building Control, you will be very much part of a team. If a Local Authority Environment appeals to you, then this is a great time to join our organisation.

About you 

The successful candidate will:

• Be registered at a minimum of Class 2a, b&d with the regulator.
• Desirable to be fully qualified with RICS, CABE or equivalent.
• Have strong team leadership track record
• Hold a driving licence and use of a car for business or fully mobile with access to transport.
• Have the ability to undertake site visits in both urban and rural parts of South Worcestershire, which may involve activities such as climbing ladders/operating in confined spaces. 
• Be totally committed to customer care.
• Have a full range of experience within the construction industry.
• Be well organised and ability to handle a variety of tasks at any time.
• Have the ability to positively respond to change and seek new and improved ways of working.

What we can offer 

 Our staff are at the heart of what we do and are key to ensuring we deliver Our Council Plan to make a positive difference to our communities, our economy and our environment. We are always looking to recruit, develop and retain the very best talent we can find. So, as well as a rewarding career, we offer a range of attractive benefits, such as:

• Excellent pension scheme with employer contributions
• Generous annual leave entitlement with options to purchase additional annual leave
• Committed training programme and development opportunities
• Onsite nursery with 20% staff discount (Pershore office only)
• Discounted Gym and swim membership
• Health and Wellbeing support and a Free Employee Assistance scheme including access to counselling services
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Employee Discounts with a range of companies including EE and the Kaarp discount scheme.

We are an employer that values face to face communication, collaboration and connection, therefore all our roles have an office-based requirement with some agile working as part of the role.

Please note: Malvern Hills District Council does not currently offer sponsorship for candidates without the Right to Work in the UK. 

Location: Although the main base is Great Malvern, the successful applicant will be expected to operate on an agile basis and from an office in Pershore and/or Worcester depending on the operational needs of the shared service.  

You can review the full Job Description Here

For a confidential discussion contact: andrew.barton@penna.com or 07922 386 432

How to Apply

1.    Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.    Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.    Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.    Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.    Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.    If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation

Salary: £72,031 – £77,783

Manchester / Hybrid | Permanent

Manchester is a city with momentum. We are ambitious, globally recognised and continually evolving—shaping a thriving, inclusive and well‑connected place for over half a million residents. To help us deliver on these ambitions, we are looking for an outstanding Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation to join one of the most dynamic and high‑profile local authority legal teams in the UK.

Why join Manchester Legal Services?

Our Legal and Democratic Services function is one of the largest in-house teams in the country. We operate a shared service with Salford City Council and deliver specialist work for Rochdale Borough Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority—putting you at the heart of England’s first and biggest devolved region. Our 240+ strong legal workforce is recognised for its professionalism, passion and commitment. Our lawyers work on complex, nationally significant initiatives that shape the lives of residents and visitors every day. This role offers a rare opportunity to lead across a broad, high-performing portfolio and contribute to some of the most exciting legal, policy and regeneration work happening anywhere in the UK.

About the role

As Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation, you will provide leadership across five specialist teams—Community, Employment, Housing & Neighbour Nuisance, Litigation, and Regulatory & Enforcement. Reporting to the Assistant Director, you will play a key role in operational leadership, deputising as required and ensuring the delivery of high‑quality, insightful and solutions‑focused legal services.

You will also take a lead on cross‑cutting legal initiatives, oversee risk and LEXCEL compliance, support income and performance management, and carry a personal caseload of complex and sensitive matters.

This is a pivotal leadership role in a fast-moving, politically dynamic environment where your work will influence major decisions and real‑world outcomes for Manchester, Salford and our wider partners.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking an exceptional legal leader—credible, collaborative and forward‑thinking. Someone who can bring people with them, inspire confidence, and deliver outstanding results across a large and varied portfolio.

You will bring:

• Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive status (with litigation rights).
• Significant experience managing complex legal work in a large, multifaceted organisation.
• Proven ability to build strong, trusted client relationships, including on sensitive and high‑profile matters.
• Demonstrable experience within at least two of the following areas; Community (Adult Social Care & Education), Employment, Housing, Litigation and Regulatory & Enforcement
• Strong strategic thinking, political awareness and the ability to influence at senior level.
• A track record of leading teams, driving performance, and delivering high‑quality legal outcomes.
• Understanding of the wider national policy landscape for local government.

What we offer

You’ll join an accredited service that values innovation, professional development and flexible working. Benefits include:

• Competitive salary with annual pay progression
• Hybrid working
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 31 after five years)
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• A wealth of additional staff benefits and development opportunities

Join us—and help shape the legal foundations of a world‑class city.

Applications close at 11.59pm on 26th July

Interviews to be held Mid August.

For a confidential discussion contact: andrew.barton@penna.com or 07922 386 432

You can review the full Job Description for this position Here

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
6. If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Corporate Director, Resources (Section 151 Officer)

We are looking for an exceptional Corporate Director of Resources to play a crucial role in delivering one of the most ambitious agendas in local government.

Tower Hamlets is like a city within a city. Our workforce of over 7,000 people serve more than 320,000 residents in the most densely populated and fastest growing place in the UK.

Millions of visitors come to our borough from across the world to see our iconic destinations. We deliver the third largest economic output in the UK with areas such as Canary Wharf and our borough borders The City, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the River Thames.

Our population is one of the most diverse in the UK, and we face the challenges of significant contrasts in wealth and poverty across the borough.

As Corporate Director of Resources and the Council's Section 151 Officer, you will be a key member of the Corporate Leadership Team, providing strategic leadership across a broad portfolio that underpins the delivery of every council service.

Leading a core suite of enabling services, you will ensure the Council remains financially sustainable, resilient and well governed, while supporting the delivery of ambitious priorities for residents and communities.

Your leadership will be critical in ensuring that resources are deployed effectively, value for money is achieved and robust governance, transparency and accountability are embedded across the organisation.

This role includes:

• Financial leadership and stewardship – acting as the Council's Section 151 Officer, ensuring statutory responsibilities are met, maintaining financial resilience and delivering a robust Medium-Term Financial Strategy.

• Corporate transformation – driving innovation, continuous improvement and modernisation across finance, procurement and corporate services to improve outcomes and organisational effectiveness.

• Strategic influence and governance – providing trusted advice and challenge to the Chief Executive, Executive Mayor, Members and senior leaders on complex financial and strategic issues.

• Partnership and collaboration – building strong relationships with government, regulators, partners and stakeholders to maximise opportunities, strengthen resilience and support long-term success.

This is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of one of London's most dynamic boroughs. You will play a leading role in supporting the Council's improvement journey while ensuring the organisation has the financial strength, governance and capacity required to deliver for residents.

About You

We are seeking an accomplished senior leader with:

• Significant experience leading large-scale finance and corporate services functions within a complex local government or public sector environment.

• Deep expertise in local government finance, including capital and revenue programmes, treasury management, financial planning and governance.

• A recognised professional finance qualification and membership of a relevant professional body such as CIPFA, ACA, ACCA or CIMA.

• A strong track record of leading transformation, organisational improvement and cultural change while maintaining high-quality service delivery.

• Outstanding communication, influencing and relationship-building skills, with the credibility to operate confidently at the highest levels.

• Political awareness, commercial acumen and a commitment to delivering excellent services and value for money.

You will be a visible, collaborative and ambitious leader who can inspire confidence, build capability and help shape the future of Tower Hamlets.

Our council is a beacon for diversity and inclusion. We want a borough where everyone feels valued and included, and we want a council that collaborates to deliver excellence.

That's why we look for people with our TOWER values of Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respectful.

To download the Job Description click the link below:

Corporate Director - Resources - Job Description

For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:

Julie Towers – 07764 791736

Andrew Tromans – 07805 226301

Kelly Ridley – 07709 512415

Closing date: 11:59pm, Friday 24^th July

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
6. If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com to inform the Penna team.

Director of Finance (Deputy Section 151 Officer)

We are looking for an exceptional Director of Finance to play a crucial role in delivering one of the most ambitious agendas in local government.

Tower Hamlets is like a city within a city. Our workforce of over 7,000 people serve more than 320,000 residents in the most densely populated and fastest growing place in the UK.

Millions of visitors come to our borough from across the world to see our iconic destinations. We deliver the third largest economic output in the UK with areas such as Canary Wharf and our borough borders The City, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the River Thames.

Our population is one of the most diverse in the UK, and we face the challenges of significant contrasts in wealth and poverty across the borough.

As Director of Finance and Deputy Section 151 Officer, you will provide strategic financial leadership at the heart of one of London's most dynamic local authorities.

Reporting to the Corporate Director of Resources, you will lead the Council's finance function and play a pivotal role in ensuring financial sustainability, strong governance and effective stewardship of public resources leading a diverse range of financial services to deliver high-quality financial advice and support across the organisation.

This role includes:

• Strategic financial leadership – helping to shape and deliver the Council's financial strategy, ensuring resilience, sustainability and robust financial governance.

• Deputy Section 151 responsibilities – supporting the Corporate Director of Resources in assuring the adequacy of reserves, robustness of budgets and long-term financial planning.

• Financial improvement and transformation – driving innovation, modernisation and continuous improvement across financial systems, processes and reporting.

• Corporate influence and challenge – providing authoritative financial advice, insight and challenge to senior leaders, Members and stakeholders to support effective decision-making.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious finance leader to make a significant impact within a high-profile and complex organisation. You will play a critical role in supporting the Council's improvement journey while helping to shape its long-term financial future.

About You

We are seeking an experienced and professionally qualified finance leader with:

• A recognised finance qualification and membership of a CCAB professional body, ideally CIPFA.

• Significant senior leadership experience within a large and complex public sector or local government environment.

• Deep expertise in financial planning, budget strategy, treasury management, capital finance, governance and statutory reporting.

• A proven track record of delivering financial recovery, improvement and transformation programmes in challenging environments.

• Strong political awareness and the ability to provide credible advice, support and challenge at the most senior levels.

• Outstanding leadership, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to influence, engage and build confidence across a wide range of stakeholders.

You will be a collaborative and resilient leader with the professional credibility, commercial acumen and strategic outlook needed to help shape the future of Tower Hamlets.

Our council is a beacon for diversity and inclusion. We want a borough where everyone feels valued and included, and we want a council that collaborates to deliver excellence.

That's why we look for people with our TOWER values of Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respectful.

To download the job description, please click the link below:

Finance Director

For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:

Julie Towers – 07764 791736

Andrew Tromans – 07805 226301

Kelly Ridley – 07709 512415

Closing date: 11:59pm, Friday 24^th July

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
6. If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com to inform the Penna team.

Corporate Director, Communities

We are looking for an exceptional Corporate Director of Communities to play a crucial role in delivering one of the most ambitious agendas in local government.

Tower Hamlets is like a city within a city. Our workforce of over 7,000 people serves more than 320,000 residents in the most densely populated and fastest growing place in the UK.

Millions of visitors come to our borough from across the world to see our iconic destinations. We deliver the third largest economic output in the UK with areas such as Canary Wharf and our borough borders The City, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the River Thames.

Our population is one of the most diverse in the UK, and we face the challenges of significant contrasts in wealth and poverty across the borough.

As Corporate Director of Communities, you will lead many of the services that residents experience every day and that have the greatest impact on the quality of life across our borough.

As a key member of the Corporate Leadership Team, you will provide strategic leadership across a diverse portfolio of services with responsibility for ensuring high-quality frontline services, supporting community cohesion and delivering visible improvements that matter to residents, businesses and visitors alike.

This role includes:

• Frontline service leadership – leading a wide-ranging operational portfolio that directly shapes residents' experience of the borough and delivers essential statutory services.

• Place and community improvement – driving improvements to the public realm, environmental services, leisure provision and community safety while ensuring services remain efficient, effective and responsive.

• Partnership and community engagement – working closely with residents, elected members, public sector partners, police, businesses and community organisations to deliver joined-up solutions and better outcomes.

• Organisational leadership and transformation – embedding innovation, accountability and continuous improvement while ensuring services are financially sustainable and represent excellent value for money.

This is a rare opportunity to influence the future of one of London's most diverse and vibrant boroughs. The breadth and visibility of the portfolio mean you will have a direct impact on the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of residents while helping to shape the borough's future.

About You

We are seeking a highly credible and inspirational leader with:

• A strong track record of leading large-scale frontline, place-based or operational services within a complex organisation.

• Significant experience of delivering service transformation, organisational improvement and measurable outcomes for communities.

• Exceptional stakeholder management and partnership-building skills, with the ability to work effectively across organisational and political boundaries.

• Strong commercial, financial and operational leadership capability, coupled with a relentless focus on customer experience and service excellence.

• Experience of leading diverse workforces through change while creating high-performing, inclusive and accountable cultures.

• Political awareness, resilience and the ability to balance strategic leadership with operational delivery.

You will be an engaging and visible leader who can inspire confidence, build partnerships and drive meaningful improvements for residents and communities across Tower Hamlets.

Our council is a beacon for diversity and inclusion. We want a borough where everyone feels valued and included, and we want a council that collaborates to deliver excellence.

That's why we look for people with our TOWER values of Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respectful.

To download the job description, please click the link below:

Corporate Director - Communities

For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:

Julie Towers – 07764 791736

Andrew Tromans – 07805 226301

Ali Tasker – 07514 728114

Closing date: 11:59pm, Friday 24th July

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
6. If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com to inform the Penna team.

Assistant Director of Finance (Deputy Section 151 Officer)

Salary:            £98,303

Location:      Ashton-under-Lyne / Hybrid (circa 2 days onsite per week, on average)

The Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to join an ambitious public sector organisation at a pivotal point in its journey and play a leading role in shaping the future of both the organisation and its Finance Service.

Reporting to the Strategic Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer), you will provide strategic and operational leadership across financial management, corporate finance and business partnering. You will be tasked with delivering a sustainable Medium-Term Financial Strategy, supporting a fundamental budget rebuild from 2027/28 onwards, strengthening corporate finance capability and further developing a modern, high-performing business partnering model.

This is a genuine Deputy Section 151 opportunity, offering significant exposure to members, senior leaders and corporate decision-making.

The Organisation

Like many local authorities, Tameside faces growing demand pressures and financial challenges. However, the Council has a clear vision for the future, underpinned by ambitious plans for growth, regeneration, transformation and improved outcomes for residents.

Significant investment has been made in strengthening the Finance Service, creating the foundations for a modern, strategic and influential function at the heart of the organisation.

Candidates

We are interested in speaking with experienced Assistant Directors, Deputy Section 151 Officers, Heads of Finance and other ambitious senior finance professionals who combine strong technical credibility with outstanding leadership and relationship-building skills.

Whether your background is rooted in corporate finance, financial management or business partnering, you will bring the ability to influence, challenge constructively and operate confidently within a complex political environment.

Next Steps

To find out more, please contact Andrew Tromans at Penna for a confidential discussion at andrew.tromans@penna.com or on 07805 226301.

For further information please visit: leadingtameside.com

Applications should consist of a CV and supporting statement setting out how you meet the requirements of the role.

Applications Close: 2 August 2026

How to Apply

1.    Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.    Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.    Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.    Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.    Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.    If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Director of People - Hertfordshire County Council

£121,449- £134,011

Shape the future. Lead with purpose. Make a lasting impact.

Hertfordshire County Council is seeking an exceptional Director of People to join us at a pivotal point in our journey.

We are a large, ambitious and forward-looking authority, driven by a strong sense of purpose and a deep commitment to delivering for our communities.

We have built a positive and supportive culture, underpinned by strong workforce foundations and an established People Strategy, alongside a clear ambition to go further. At the same time, we are entering a period of significant change, with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) now underway.

This presents a rare, career-defining opportunity to take on a senior leadership role, guiding our workforce through change while helping to shape the future of local government across Hertfordshire.

Although the detail of LGR is still evolving, this moment offers a genuinely exciting opportunity: to provide stability and clarity in the present, while playing a key role in designing and influencing the organisation of the future.

The Role

As Director of People, you will lead a significant and complex portfolio, supporting a workforce of around 9,000 employees alongside our schools community and Fire & Rescue service. This is a hands-on, high-impact role with real influence over both current priorities and the future shape of the organisation.

You will be responsible for leading the strategic and operational delivery of HR, workforce strategy, organisational development and payroll, while also driving the people and workforce workstream for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). As a key member of the corporate leadership team, you will act as a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive and Members, playing a visible and credible role and driving organisational performance, culture and continuous improvement.

Success in this role will require a leader who combines strategic insight with strong operational grip and the ability to build trusted relationships. You will provide clarity and direction through a period of uncertainty, ensuring the organisation remains safe, effective and well-governed from a people perspective. You will strengthen leadership capability and overall organisational performance, while building and sustaining effective relationships with Members, partners and trade unions.

While culture and organisational development remain important, there is a clear priority on delivering strong, resilient HR leadership over the coming years, ensuring the organisation has the solid foundations it needs as it evolves.

About You

You will be a credible and thoughtful leader, comfortable operating at Executive level in a complex, politically-led environment.

You will bring:

·      A strong track record of leading a wider range of HR functions at scale

·      Proven experience overseeing and delivering organisational change and transformation, maintaining pace while sustaining core services

·      The ability to translate strategy into practical, high-quality delivery

·      The credibility to influence, advise and support at the most senior level

Just as importantly, you will:

·      Build trust quickly and work collaboratively

·      Challenge constructively, bringing fresh thinking and sound judgement

·      Operate with confidence, clarity and resilience in the face of ambiguity.

We welcome applications from both established Directors and high-potential leaders ready to step up, who can demonstrate the capability to succeed at this level.

If you are ready to take on a role of real scale, influence and impact and to help shape the future of Hertfordshire we would love to hear from you.

Please click here to download a candidate pack.

For a confidential conversation or to find out more, please get in touch with a member of the Penna Team.

• Ali Tasker: 07514 728114 or ali.tasker@penna.com
• James Miller: 07701233159 or james.miller@penna.com
• Rachael Morris: 07840 711217 or rachael.morris@penna.com

Key Dates in Recruitment Timeline

Closing Date: 23:59 on Sunday 19th of July

Longlisting (candidates are not required to attend): Wednesday 22nd of July

Technical/Preliminary Interviews (Online via MS Teams): W/C 27th of July

Shortlisting (candidates are not required to attend): Friday 31st of July

Final Interviews (In person): Friday 14th of August

How to Apply

1.    Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.    Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.    Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.    Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.    Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.    If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

This is a full-time, permanent role with hybrid working, and a salary of £55,296 - £60,286 per annum.

The role:

Reporting directly to the Assistant Director for Housing & Public Protection, this is a pivotal leadership role at the heart of some of our most high-profile and high-impact services.

You’ll drive excellence across business support, performance, and continuous improvement—using your insight, creativity and data‑led innovation to transform how we deliver for residents and businesses.

From shaping strategic direction to ensuring seamless back‑office operations, you’ll play a critical role in enabling and enhancing a diverse portfolio of frontline services. No two days will be the same. Your work will touch everything from stray dogs, licensing and business inspections to enforcement, homelessness, temporary accommodation, UK resettlement schemes, and even Royal events in Windsor.

 Your role will involve:

• Lead and inspire the Business Support & Performance function—including full budget responsibility—and champion a culture of improvement and innovation.
• Occasionally deputise for the Assistant Director, providing strong leadership and direction when required.
• Turn insight into action by developing high‑quality performance dashboards, needs assessments and intelligence products that shape how we work.
• Lead in the specification and procurement of service software.
• Oversee FOIs, Member enquiries, complaints, statutory housing reviews/appeals and legal processes, ensuring learning drives better customer experience.
• Manage key contracts in line with the Council’s Constitution, ensuring value, quality, and compliance.

What we are looking for:

A creative strategist who brings fresh ideas and the determination to turn passion into delivery. You will have:

• A Level 5/6 qualification in a relevant field (e.g. Housing Studies, Business Administration, Environmental Health) or equivalent senior experience in housing/public protection, with a proven track record in strategy, ICT/project delivery or transformation.
• Experienced leadership, including managing people and budgets to deliver high‑performing, customer‑focused services.
• Strong awareness of the housing/public protection landscape, local government policy, and governance.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to analyse data, produce clear and compelling reports, and manage complex formal complaints—including Ombudsman cases.

For more information on this role and others, please visit: https://rbwmjobs.co.uk/

For a confidential discussion contact: Andreas.Efthymiou@penna.com or 07546 415 794.

How to Apply

1.    Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.    Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.    Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.    Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.    Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.    If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Chief Executive - North East Regional Care Co‑operative (RCC)

Salary: £158,084

We are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive with the vision and leadership to transform regional commissioning of care for children across the North East region.

This is a rare and high‑profile opportunity to lead the creation and establishment of the North East Regional Care Co‑operative (RCC), a new organisation bringing together 12 Local Authorities to deliver sustainable, high‑quality regional care arrangements for children. It could be a defining role for the right candidate with the opportunity to shape the future.

As Chief Executive, you will provide visible, executive‑level leadership through the RCC’s start‑up phase and beyond. You will be accountable for developing and delivering the RCC’s strategy and business plan, ensuring the organisation meets national minimum requirements while being shaped to meet the context of the North East. Working closely with elected members, senior officers, partners and regulators, you will lead an organisation that is innovative, financially robust and built for the future.

You will:

• Establish and lead a new regional organisation, embedding strong governance, performance and financial management
• Build and empower a high‑performing regional leadership team and workforce
• Develop strong relationships across Local Authorities, Combined Authorities and key partners including health, police, youth justice and education
• Drive cultural change, transparency and collaboration across a complex system
• Operate in an emerging landscape at regional and national level, identifying opportunities for innovation, funding and collaboration
• Ensure children’s voices, equity, and value for money are central to everything the RCC does

We are seeking an experienced executive leader with a strong track record in local government or a partner agency, with a deep understanding of Children’s Services, who brings strategic insight, political acumen and the ability to lead change across complex systems. You will combine strong commercial and financial leadership with a clear commitment to co‑production, service excellence and improving outcomes for children and young people.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a new regional organisation from the ground up and to make a lasting difference at scale across the North East.

To find out more, please contact our retained consultants at Penna: Nick Raper on 07715 690463, or Ali Tasker on 07514 728 114 for a confidential conversation, or visit durhamleadership for further information.

Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 27th of July

How to Apply

1.     Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.     Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.     Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.     Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.     Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.     If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Delivery Director - North East Regional Care Co‑operative (RCC)

Salary: £119,532

We are seeking an exceptional leader to take on the pivotal role of Delivery Director for the North East Regional Care Co‑operative - a new and ambitious partnership bringing together 12 Local Authorities to transform how children’s care is commissioned and delivered.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and forming a key part of the regional leadership team, you will lead the development and delivery of a bold, innovative regional commissioning model. You will play a critical role in establishing a high‑performing, sustainable organisation, delivering the North East RCC delivery plan and achieving our expectations and outcomes for children and young people.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a new regional system from the ground up - designing structures, building teams, and embedding new ways of working that deliver a coherent, high‑quality and value‑driven offer across the region.

You will:

• Lead the design and implementation of a new regional commissioning model for children’s care
• Be accountable for significant budgets, resources and delivery of the regional programme
• Establish strong governance, performance and risk management frameworks
• Foster strong partnerships with Local Authorities, providers and key stakeholders across the region
• Drive innovation, commercial thinking and collaboration to ensure sustainability and improved outcomes
• Represent the North East at national level, building relationships and maximising opportunities for the RCC to be a long term sustainable model

We are looking for an accomplished senior leader with extensive experience in commissioning, within Children’s Services or a related sector. You will bring strong system leadership, commercial acumen and political awareness, with a proven ability to lead complex change, establish new services and deliver results at scale.

You will be a collaborative and values‑driven leader, committed to co‑production, equality and ensuring the voices of children, young people and families are central to service design and delivery.

This is a unique opportunity to play a leading role in shaping a new regional system and delivering lasting impact for children and young people across the North East.

To find out more, please contact our retained consultants at Penna: Nick Raper on 07715 690463, or Ali Tasker on 07514 728 114 for a confidential conversation, or visit durhamleadership for further information.

Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 27th of July

How to Apply

1.     Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.     Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.     Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.     Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.     Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.     If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Director of Family Based Care – North East Regional Care Co‑operative (RCC)

Salary: £119,532

We are seeking an exceptional senior leader to take on the pivotal role of Director of Family Based Care for the North East Regional Care Co‑operative (RCC) – a new and ambitious partnership bringing together 12 Local Authorities to transform how family‑based care is designed, delivered and sustained across the region.

Reporting to the RCC Chief Executive and forming a key part of the regional leadership team, you will hold overall responsibility for delivering the national requirements for regional end‑to‑end fostering hubs, as part of a broader strategic regional approach to Family Based Care through Foster with North East (FwNE).

You will lead the implementation of the agreed Locality Delivery Model, with full accountability for meeting national minimum standards and requirements. This is a critical role in establishing a coherent, high‑quality and sustainable regional offer that improves outcomes for children, young people and foster carers across the North East.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a new regional system from the ground up – designing structures, building teams, embedding new ways of working and positioning the North East as a national leader in Family Based Care.

You will:

• Provide clear, visible leadership for Family Based Care across the region, aligned to the strategic vision of the RCC Board, Chief Executive and key decision‑makers
• Lead the establishment and implementation of a new regional model for Family Based Care, embedding new structures and ways of working
• Be accountable at regional level for all resources, staffing and budgets allocated through FwNE, including delivery of the agreed programme of work
• Ensure Foster with North East meets national minimum requirements and timescales set out in the Fostering Recruitment and Retention Programme: End‑to‑End Programme Guidance and the new national minimum standards.
• Oversee the development and recruitment of the new staffing structure for FwNE including transition of existing LA based staff.
• Lead the delivery of a large and complex budget, ensuring effective financial management and delivery of the approved business case
• Establish robust governance, performance management and risk management frameworks, with transparent reporting of quality, performance and progress
• Develop and sustain strong relationships with senior leaders across Local Authorities and key partner organisations to enable successful regional delivery
• Work closely with the three Regional Adoption Agencies to ensure alignment, avoid duplication and maximise regional impact
• Engage with national leaders and colleagues across other regions to embrace innovation and maximise opportunities arising from national reforms
• Bring strong commercial acumen to position the regional arrangements as market‑leading, sustainable and value‑driven
• Lead and model cultural change, promoting clear, effective and transparent communication across emerging regional arrangements
• Ensure stakeholder insight, including the voices of children, young people and carers, is central to the design and delivery of Foster with North East and the RCC

We are looking for an accomplished senior leader with extensive experience of leading fostering services at a senior level within a Local Authority or an Independent Fostering Agency. You will bring strong system leadership, financial and commercial acumen, and significant political awareness, with a proven ability to lead complex change, establish new services and deliver results at scale.

This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in shaping a new regional Family Based Care system and delivering lasting impact for children and young people across the North East.

To find out more, please contact our retained consultants at Penna: Nick Raper on 07715 690463, or Ali Tasker on 07514 728 114 for a confidential conversation, or visit durhamleadership for further information.

Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 27th of July

How to Apply

1.     Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.     Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.     Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.     Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.     Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.     If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.

Assistant Director of All Age Commissioning

Salary: £111,070

Location: Tameside Council

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (36 hours per week)

Are you an ambitious and values‑driven commissioning leader ready to make a real, lasting difference to children, young people, adults, and families? We are looking for an exceptional Assistant Director of All Age Commissioning to shape the future of our all‑age health and social care system.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward‑thinking organisation with a clear focus on quality, outcomes, prevention, and partnership working. You will play a pivotal role in transforming services, strengthening our provider market, and delivering better outcomes for our residents.

You will oversee commissioning strategies, market shaping, contract management, and partnership delivery across the whole age-range.

What you’ll bring

• A proven track record of senior leadership in commissioning
• Deep understanding of social care regulations, contract and performance management
• Experience in managing contract compliance, service quality, and commissioning outcomes
• Ability to develop and influence a sustainable, high‑quality provider market.
• Capability to develop integrated commissioning models across health and social care.
• The ability to inspire teams and build trusted relationships across systems

Why join us

This is an opportunity to shape the future of commissioning to improve outcomes for children and adults at a time of significant national reform and local ambition. You’ll join a collaborative, values‑driven organisation that is committed to achieving the very best for our residents.

If you are a strategic and compassionate leader who thrives on challenge and wants to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: 23:59 Sunday 2nd of August

For further information please visit: www.leadingtameside.com

Alternatively, please contact our recruitment partners at Penna:

Amin Aziz on 07709 514141 or email: amin.aziz@penna.com

Tom Niven on 07860 657044 or email: tom.niven@penna.com

How to Apply

1.     Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”

2.     Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.

3.     Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.

4.     Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.

5.     Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

6.     If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.