Job Purpose

This interim role provides a unique opportunity to work closely with the Chief Executive of the Council, providing high-level executive support while also managing a small team of Executive Assistants. The postholder will act as a critical link between the Chief Executive, Strategic Leadership Team (SLT), elected Members, and external stakeholders, contributing to the delivery of the Council Plan and the effective operation of corporate leadership functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide proactive and confidential executive support to the Chief Executive, including high-level inbox and diary management.
  

• Lead the organisation and coordination of SLT and Wider Leadership Team meetings, ensuring strategic oversight of stakeholder issues.
  

• Manage the systems and procedures supporting SLT meetings, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
  

• Act as the Chief Executive’s representative with Councillors, MPs, senior officers, partners, and the public—demonstrating political sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy.
  

• Draft and manage corporate communications on behalf of the CEO, liaising with the Communications Team where appropriate.
  

• Maintain oversight of corporate and democratic processes (e.g. complaints, FOIs, SARs) ensuring compliance and timely reporting.
  

• Line manage a team of Executive Assistants providing support to Executive Directors and Directors, ensuring consistent and high-quality service.
  

• Support the coordination of Corporate Leadership Group events, working collaboratively across enabling services.
  

• Develop and implement systems to support the CEO's office in a complex, political, and fast-paced environment.
  

• Undertake research and analysis on behalf of the CEO or SLT, contributing to corporate projects and policy development.
  

• Identify problems and proactively develop solutions, using initiative, innovation, and sound judgement.
  

• Uphold and promote the Council’s values, with a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
  

• Model flexible working, adapting to changing priorities and managing work-life balance to meet the role’s demands.
  

• Provide input on process improvements and cost-efficiency initiatives in business support operations.
  

Requirements

• Proven experience providing executive support at CEO or senior director level.
  

• Demonstrated ability to manage relationships with high-level stakeholders, including Councillors, MPs, and senior officers.
  

• Political awareness and understanding of local authority operations and governance.
  

• Experience leading or coordinating a small team in a fast-paced executive environment.
  

• Outstanding organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise multiple tasks under pressure.
  

• High level of discretion, professionalism, and diplomacy when dealing with sensitive matters.
  

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including minute-taking, report writing, and briefings.
  

• Experience with diary and inbox management, meeting coordination, and working across multiple departments.
  

• Confident in influencing and negotiating across organisational boundaries.
  

• Advanced IT skills and experience using digital tools to improve workflows and communication.