Liverpool Council is beginning its search for a new chief executive from next week.
According to a timetable made public by the local authority, it could be in a position to confirm who will take up the role by March 1, next year. The city council’s previous boss Tony Reeves stepped down from the role he held for four years in July amid a highly critical report by government appointed commissioners.
Former Trafford Council chief Theresa Grant stepped into the breach four weeks ago on an interim basis for eight months and has vowed to bring stability to the organisation. According to a report by Liverpool Council’s appointments and disciplinary panel, the local authority is to look for “an experienced leader with a reputation for service excellence, strong leadership, and track record in delivering large scale improvement and transformation under challenging financial pressures.”
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When the panel meets next week, it is expected to approve the beginning of the recruitment process, with a view to procuring a recruitment agency by the middle of next month. The official search for a new head of paid service and returning officer will then commence by the end of November.
In January next year, it is anticipated the window for applications will close with interviews to be undertaken the following month. March 1, 2023, has been earmarked for the successful candidate’s approval by the full council.
The report said: “To attract a quality field of candidates the panel has been asked to endorse a ‘competitive’ salary arrangement. Determination of the final salary will be following consultations with the Chair, Members of the Appointment and Disciplinary Panel and Commissioners.”
It was said the commissioners support these recommendations and note the importance of “a rigorous, tailored recruitment process for the role of CEO.” The document added: “This role is crucial for the future of the Council, the City and residents.
“Investment must be made to secure the candidate with the appropriate experience, skills, values, motivation and resilience in what is a very tough recruitment market.” A maximum budget of £50,000 is to be set aside for all costs associated with this specialist process including advertisement and psychometric tests.
The report said the postholder will continue to lead a three-year council wide transformation programme that will “transform key council services and operations to better meet the needs of residents, reduce operating costs and enable the council to be financially stable in the future.”
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