Head of Public Service Reform and Innovation

NORTH EAST MAYORAL COMBINED AUTHORITY; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional public authority in the United Kingdom is seeking a dynamic leader to drive Public Service Reform and innovation initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in public service innovation, strategic programme delivery, and stakeholder engagement. This high-impact role involves shaping region-wide strategies and working with various partners to implement scalable solutions for communities. The authority is committed to inclusivity and encourages diverse applications.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in public service innovation and strategic programme delivery.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement at the highest levels.

Responsibilities

• Drive Public Service Reform (PSR) and innovation.
• Shape and deliver region-wide strategies.
• Lead initiatives that tackle systemic challenges.
• Oversee financial and operational resources.

Skills

Public service innovation

Strategic programme delivery

Stakeholder engagement

Influencing public policy

Team leadership

Job description

Overview

This position is part of the North East Combined Authority's participation in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Innovation team (i-team) programme. Charged with helping city officials and civic partners design and implement solutions that meet pressing local challenges, the i-team will expertly deploy data, collect insight, and collaborate across sectors to develop resident-centered interventions that improve people's lives. The i-team will receive technical assistance from regional and global specialists, and benefit from learnings from peers in city halls across the region and around the world. To date, the Bloomberg Philanthropies i-team initiative has reached over 100 cities across 16 countries and four continents—representing more than 100 million residents—and inspired hundreds of other local governments to embrace innovation systems and practices.

Are you ready to lead transformative change across public services in the North East?

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to drive Public Service Reform (PSR) and innovation for the North East Mayoral Combined Authority. In this strategic role, you’ll convene senior-level partnerships, shape and deliver region-wide strategies, and lead pioneering initiatives that tackle systemic challenges and improve outcomes for our communities. You’ll work closely with national departments, local authorities, and regional service providers to design and implement scalable, person-centred solutions that reflect our values and policy priorities.

This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone with a proven track record in public service innovation, strategic programme delivery, and stakeholder engagement at the highest levels. You’ll oversee financial and operational resources, lead a high-performing team, and provide expert advice across the organisation. If you’re passionate about driving radical prevention, influencing public policy, and creating lasting change for the most disadvantaged communities, we want to hear from you.

We are proud to be an inclusive employer and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in senior roles, including women, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Drive Public Service Reform (PSR) and innovation for the North East Mayoral Combined Authority.
• Convene senior-level partnerships, shape and deliver region-wide strategies, and lead pioneering initiatives that tackle systemic challenges and improve outcomes for communities.
• Work with national departments, local authorities, and regional service providers to design and implement scalable, person-centred solutions that reflect values and policy priorities.
• Oversee financial and operational resources, lead a high-performing team, and provide expert advice across the organisation.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in public service innovation, strategic programme delivery, and stakeholder engagement at the highest levels.
• Ability to influence public policy and drive lasting change for disadvantaged communities.

To Apply

If you would like an informal discussion, or further information about this role please contact: Adrian Dougherty, Assistant Director Inclusive Futures by email: [e-mail]