Chief Executive

Job Introduction

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.

Please see our Microsite for further information, Job details and How to apply here: LeadatBCP

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

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