Executive Director – Place and Prosperity (2-year fixed term contract)

South Derbyshire District Council; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

South Derbyshire District Council in England is seeking an exceptional Executive Director to shape the future of the district at a pivotal moment in its history, reporting to the Chief Executive and joining the Leadership Team.

You will lead a broad portfolio including Housing, Planning, Economic Growth and Development, and Cultural & Community Services, deliver the Council Plan, progress the Local Plan, and drive regeneration, investment and sustainable growth across the district.

Responsibilities

• Lead Housing, Planning, Economic Growth and Development, and Cultural & Community Services as part of the Leadership Team.
• Deliver the Council Plan, progress the Local Plan, drive housing improvement and sustainable growth across South Derbyshire.
• Lead major investment and regeneration projects and build strong relationships with businesses, investors and key employers.

Job description

We are seeking an exceptional Executive Director to help shape the future of South Derbyshire at a pivotal moment in its history.

South Derbyshire is one of the UK's best connected and fastest growing districts, with ambitious plans for housing, regeneration, economic growth and community wellbeing.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and joining the Leadership Team, you will lead a broad portfolio including Housing, Planning, Economic Growth and Development, and Cultural & Community Services. You will play a central role in delivering the Council Plan, progressing the Local Plan, driving housing improvement and supporting sustainable growth across South Derbyshire.

This is a unique opportunity to lead major investment and regeneration projects, including the continued transformation of our town centres and the development of strong relationships with businesses, investors and key employers across the district. You will build on opportunities associated with the East Midlands Freeport and help ensure South Derbyshire remains a highly attractive place to live, work and invest.

Local Government Reorganisation adds further significance to this role. As South Derbyshire looks ahead to becoming part of a new unitary council in 2028, you will help shape the future of place-based services, while bringing capacity, resilience and strategic leadership to the organisation during this transformational period of change.

If you want to make a lasting impact during one of the most important periods in the District's history, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: Friday 18 September 2026