LGR Programme Director

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Employer:
Staffordshire County Council
Location:
Stafford
Salary:
Competitive
Closing date:
Friday 11th September
Job Ref:
GSe135127

Recruitment timetable

Closing Date
Friday 11th September
Long Listing
Monday 14th September
Preliminary Interviews
Thursday 17th and Friday 18th September
Short Listing
Tuesday 22nd September
Assessment
Thursday 24th September
Final Panel
Wednesday 7th October

Description

Programme Director – Local Government Reorganisation

Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent

Competitive Salary - Fixed Term to April 2028

Lead one of the most significant local government transformation programmes in England!

The Government has confirmed the creation of two new unitary councils across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of local government, public services and communities across the area.

Reporting to the Senior Responsible Officer and working on behalf of ten councils, you will lead the implementation of this landmark programme through to vesting day in April 2028. Responsible for programme delivery at system level, you will provide strategic leadership across governance, organisation design, workforce transition, service continuity, stakeholder engagement, and programme execution.

This is a role which requires exceptional leadership, judgement and influence. Operating in a highly visible and politically sensitive environment, you will work closely with Leaders, Chief Executives, Members, statutory officers, Government departments and external partners across and beyond the system to translate ambition into successful delivery.

We are looking for an accomplished transformation leader with experience of delivering large-scale, complex change across organisational boundaries. Whilst experience of Local Government Reorganisation would be advantageous, we are equally interested in senior leaders who can demonstrate outstanding programme leadership, political awareness and stakeholder management skills. Above all, you will bring credibility, resilience and the ability to build consensus whilst maintaining pace and momentum.

This is a rare opportunity to create two new public institutions that will serve residents and communities for generations to come.

For a confidential discussion contact our executive search partners GatenbySanderson: Jude Watters (07594 250060) or Seb Lowe (07464 543442), or visit our microsite: www.staffordshireleaders.com

Closing Date: 11th September 2026

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How to Apply

  • Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.
  • Detail any employment or education gaps.
  • Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.
  • Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.
  • Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation. If you do not receive, please email contactus@gatenbysanderson.com

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