Job description
This is a career-defining opportunity to become the inaugural Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service of the Hull and East Riding Combined Authority (HEYCA). You will be the most senior officer of the Authority, reporting directly to the Mayor and the HEYCA Board, and responsible for turning vision into reality.
You will lead the organisation through its formative years, establishing its strategic direction, operational effectiveness, and a values-led culture. You will be the Mayor’s principal adviser, helping to shape policy and delivery across all devolved functions, and acting as the key interface with central government under the “devolution by default” principle.
Your leadership will be instrumental in -
- designing and scaling HEYCA’s teams, systems, and services
- building a high-performing, collaborative organisation
- driving innovation in areas such as -
- new clean energy production and energy security
- AI and digital transformation
- place-based delivery
- forging strong partnerships with -
- government
- business
- education
- the third sector
- local people
- representing HEYCA at regional, national, and international levels
This role demands strategic vision, political acumen, and a deep commitment to public service. You will be responsible for embedding robust governance, financial stewardship, and a culture of continuous improvement.
About the Candidate
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader who can bring credibility, energy, and strategic insight to this once-in-a-generation opportunity. You will be a values-led individual with a passion for place-based leadership and a track record of delivering transformation in complex environments.
We are genuinely open to, and actively interested in candidates from a wide range of professional backgrounds. Whether your experience is rooted in public service, the commercial sector, or spans both, what matters most is your ability to lead with purpose, navigate complexity, and deliver lasting impact for the region.
As the inaugural Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, you will be -
- a strategic thinker with the ability to translate long-term regional ambitions into practical delivery plans
- a collaborative leader who can build trust and alignment across diverse stakeholders
- politically astute and personally credible, able to navigate sensitive environments with integrity
- resilient and emotionally intelligent, with the ability to lead through ambiguity and change
- committed to inclusive leadership, equity, and public service excellence
Essential Skills and Experience
We are looking for proven experience as a senior strategic leader in a complex political and stakeholder environment, including -
- experience working within or alongside -
- strategic authorities
- combined authorities
- central government departments involved in devolution policy
- track record of delivering organisational transformation and managing public services at scale
- deep understanding of place-based leadership and the levers of economic growth
- strong commercial awareness and financial management capabilities
- exceptional partnership working and influencing skills across sectors and government levels
Knowledge and Qualifications
Deep understanding of the Hull and East Yorkshire region, including its opportunities and challenges, along with -
- being educated to degree level or equivalent relevant experience
- evidence of continuing professional development
- membership of a relevant professional body is desirable
The role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (as amended) and will be based full-time in Hull City Centre.
For a confidential discussion about the role, contact -
- Marek Dobrowolski, Partner
- Corinne Attwood, Senior Researcher
- Ruth Hernandez Turner, Principal Researcher
Closing date for applications is Sunday 31 August 2025
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