Job Specifications
Greater Essex is entering a transformative period through devolution, aimed at simplifying governance, improving service delivery, and empowering communities. Under the proposed changes, powers and funding will be transferred from central government to a new Mayoral Combined County Authority, enabling more local control over key areas such as transport, housing, and economic development.
Role Overview:
The Interim Chief Executive Officer will lead the formation and operational readiness of the interim Greater Essex Combined County Authority, translating the ambitions of devolution into a credible, outcome focused functioning Authority.
This role demands a visionary, politically astute leader with experience of operating successfully in complex public sector systems, capable of building trust, shaping strategy, and delivering transformation at pace.
The Interim CEO will act as the principal advisor to the Constituent Authority Chief Executives and Mayor once elected, providing advice to the interim board and ensuring GECCA is positioned to deliver inclusive growth, public value, and long-term impact for the people of Essex.
The role holder will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight during the critical establishment phase of the interim Greater Essex Combined County Authority and shape the Authority's foundational structures, working across the Essex system and building trusted relationships, to ensure readiness to deliver on the ambitions of devolution.
Role Accountabilities:
Leadership & Vision:
Provide confident, strategic leadership to shape the Greater Essex Combined County Authority's identity, values, and long-term direction
Establish a high-performing executive team and organisational structure aligned to future delivery priorities
Foster a culture of collaborative, inclusive, and transparent leadership across the whole of Essex
Devolution Leadership
Lead the operational delivery of the devolution deal and assume devolved powers and responsibilities.
Translate strategic ambitions into impactful programmes tailored to Essex's needs and opportunities
Develop internal capacity and governance for long-term devolution success
Public Impact & Inclusive Growth
Champion inclusive economic growth, public service reform and improved outcomes for residents.
Ensure early programmes reflect community priorities and reduce inequalities
Embed evidence-based decision-making and a focus on public value
Political Acumen & System Leadership
Navigate complex political environments with credibility and tact, working closely with elected leaders, councils, and stakeholders.
Build trust across the system, enabling shared ownership of the Authority's mission and delivery.
Provide impartial, strategic advice to decision makers that balances ambition with realism
Strategic Advocacy & National Influence
Represent the Authority at regional, national, and ministerial levels, influencing outcomes and securing investment and buy in.
Build strategic alliances with government departments, business leaders, and civic organisations.
Ensure national engagement translates into tailored, impactful outcomes for Essex communities.
Financial Management & Governance
Establish robust financial systems, controls, and reporting mechanisms to support transparency and accountability.
Lead budget development and resource planning for the Authority's initial operating phase.
Ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, including audit and assurance
People Management & Culture
Set the tone for a values-led, inclusive workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent
Lead the change transformation process to embed, values, behaviours employee engagement during setup and transition.
Role model the interim GECCA's core values and behaviours - ensuring all senior leaders to do the same to embed across the new organisation
Statutory Duties
Fulfil the statutory responsibilities of the Head of Paid Service, ensuring lawful and effective operation of the Authority.
Ensure GECCA meets all legal obligations during its formation, including governance, transparency, and public accountability.
Prepare the organisation for future statutory functions under the elected Mayor and permanent leadership.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
Strong track record of ongoing professional development and expert knowledge in a relevant professional area.
Inspirational leadership style with a commitment to inclusion, integrity, and public service.
Proven experience in senior executive leadership within complex public sector organisations, ideally during setup or transformation phases.
Proven ability to lead across complex systems, aligning functions and priorities across councils, agencies, and regional partners.
Experience in building shared ownership of strategic goals while respecting local autonomy.
Deep understanding of devolution, place-based leadership, and multi-agency governance.
Strong political awareness an