The role

Chief Executive – Beside the Sea, Beyond Expectations

Salary: £205,178 per annum + returning officer fees

BCP Council is ready for its next era of leadership – could this be the job for you?

This is more than a job; this is the opportunity to shape the future of one of the UK’s most dynamic coastal regions. Sitting at the heart of a stunning landscape, Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole offer a blend of coastal beauty, thriving urban life, and an engaged, ambitious community.

BCP Council is a local authority transformed - a place that has risen to the challenge of change, rebuilding from previous challenges to become a strong, financially stable, and ambitious council. We’re looking for the next iteration of leader -someone with vision, courage, and the ability to drive real impact across our system.

What We’re Looking For

You’ll be a pioneering leader capable of navigating complexity across the council and within the wider Pan-Dorset system and local government family. Whether you have a strong public sector background or can demonstrate outstanding political and financial acumen from another sector, you must bring:

  • Sharp financial stewardship – ensuring stability and forward-thinking growth
  • True strategic leadership – connecting across departments and partnerships
  • Unparalleled political acumen – engaging with elected members and stakeholders
  • A bold, people-first approach – inspiring employees and the community
  • Commercial insight – to drive efficiency and sustainability

At BCP Council, we are driven by our values:

  • Passion – We care deeply about our people and place
  • Innovation – We embrace new ideas and challenge the status quo
  • Pride – We take ownership of delivering the best outcomes
  • Respect – We collaborate and listen to each other
  • Integrity – We do what’s right, always

This is a council that has successfully transformed inadequate children’s services into good, recovered from a best value notice, and taken bold steps towards financial security. Now, we need a leader who will take us beyond expectations.

If you’re ready to define your legacy, lead a council that truly values its people, and do it all in one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal locations, this is your moment.

Apply now – This is the job that will make you.

For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact one of our retained consultants at Penna:

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