Interim Executive Director of Place

Starfish Search; Leeds; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an Interim Executive Director of Place for a council in England. The role demands strong leadership over various Place initiatives, including regeneration and economic growth. Candidates must demonstrate substantial experience at executive levels within local government, showcasing skills in stakeholder management and transformation leadership. This position offers a six-month contract aimed at delivering high-quality services to communities.

Qualifications

• Strong track record as an Executive Director or equivalent in local authority.
• Experience leading complex, Place-based portfolios within local government.
• Proven ability to lead transformation and service improvement.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the Place directorate.
• Shape and deliver the council’s place strategy and long-term vision.
• Ensure effective governance and financial control.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder management

Transformation leadership

Financial control

Problem solving

Job description

Starfish Search are working with a Council in the North of England who are seeking an Interim Executive Director of Place to provide strong, visible leadership across a broad Place portfolio. This is a high‑profile role, central to driving economic growth, regeneration, and high-quality place‑based services for residents and communities.

This is a 6 month contract.

You Will :

• Provide strategic leadership across the Place directorate, including regeneration, planning, housing, transport, environmental services, and economic development.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive, Cabinet Members, and Corporate Leadership Team to shape and deliver the council’s place strategy and long‑term vision.
• Drive inclusive growth, regeneration and investment, ensuring outcomes deliver tangible benefits for residents and local businesses.
• Provide clear leadership to senior officers, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
• Build strong partnerships with external stakeholders including government bodies, neighbouring authorities, developers, and the voluntary and private sectors.
• Ensure effective governance, risk management, and financial control across the directorate.

You Will Have :

• A strong track record operating at Executive Director, Director, or equivalent level within a local authority.
• Significant experience leading large, complex Place‑based portfolios within local government.
• Proven ability to lead transformation, regeneration, and service improvement in a politically sensitive environment.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the credibility to work effectively with elected Members and senior partners.
• A pragmatic and resilient leadership style, able to balance strategic direction with hands‑on problem solving when required.

Due to a high volume of applications, we may not be able to respond to every applicant individually.