Chief Innovation & Commercial Officer - CMB1731e

Cumberland Council; Preston; On-site; GBP 113,000 - 128,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Chief Innovation and Commercial Officer to lead transformative change within the council. This role is pivotal in driving commercial thinking and service innovation, enhancing the quality of public services for the community. You will collaborate with senior leadership and various departments to inspire high-performing teams and cultivate strategic partnerships. If you are a strategic leader with a passion for public service and innovation, this opportunity offers a chance to make a real impact while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Cumbria.

Qualifications

• Significant senior leadership experience in large organizations.
• Track record of delivering commercial success and service improvements.

Responsibilities

• Champion innovation and entrepreneurial thinking across the Council.
• Drive revenue growth while maintaining exceptional public service quality.
• Collaborate across departments to create smarter, joined-up services.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Commercial Awareness

Strategic Thinking

Public Sector Innovation

People Management

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Business or Public Administration

Job description

Chief Innovation and Commercial Officer

Location: Cumberland area

Salary: £113,434 - £127,225 per annum

About Us

Join a values-driven council where people come first — and your potential has no limits. At Cumberland Council, we’re passionate about delivering inclusive, impactful public services — and that starts with our people. We put health, wellbeing and personal growth at the heart of everything we do, creating an environment where you can thrive while making a real difference to our communities.

Based in the stunning county of Cumbria, you’ll enjoy a lifestyle that balances career ambition with natural beauty and affordability. From peaceful beaches and charming villages to the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District, this is a place that truly inspires.

This is more than a job — it’s a chance to shape a better future, unlock your potential, and be part of something bigger!

The Opportunity

As Chief Innovation and Commercial Officer, you’ll be at the forefront of driving commercial thinking, service transformation, and innovation across the Council. This is a unique opportunity to lead major change, generate new income streams, and enhance the services we deliver to our residents.

You’ll be part of the senior leadership team, responsible for key functions including ICT, Digital, and Corporate Assets. You’ll work across departments to create a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement — all while delivering real value to our communities.

What You'll Be Doing

1. Champion innovation and entrepreneurial thinking across the Council
2. Drive revenue growth while maintaining exceptional public service quality
3. Support Assistant Directors in the development of key strategies related to ICT, digital transformation, and corporate asset management
4. Cultivate strategic partnerships across local, national, and international networks
5. Inspire and empower high-performing teams to deliver with purpose
6. Collaborate across departments to create smarter, more joined-up services
7. Translate political vision into transformative, community-focused initiatives

About You

We’re looking for a strategic and commercially savvy leader who thrives in complex environments and knows how to turn ambition into action. You’ll bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a large, multifaceted organisation
• A track record of delivering commercial success and service improvement
• Outstanding leadership and people management skills
• Deep understanding of public sector innovation and transformation
• The ability to influence, inspire and lead change across boundaries
• A collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking mindset

Contact

For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact [e-mail].

Application and Interview information

Please upload a covering letter and CV with your application.

Closing date: Tuesday 13th May 2025

1st stage interview date: Friday 30th May 2025

Final stage interview date: Monday 16th June 2025

Please Read The Supporting Information

Post Specification

Please also refer to our Careers site to find out more:

• Our Staff Benefits
• Candidate Support
• About Cumberland Council
• Senior Leadership Recruitment

Ready to lead the change? Apply now and help shape the future of public services in Cumberland.