Chief Executive

Dorset is a county like no other – a place of stunning natural beauty, thriving communities, and opportunity. Dorset Council is at the forefront of public service transformation, committed to innovation, inclusivity, and delivering meaningful impact for residents, businesses, and the environment. We’re now recruiting for an exceptional Chief Executive to lead us on this exciting journey.

As Chief Executive, you will be the driving force behind Dorset Council’s strategic vision and delivery, working alongside ambitious political leadership and a talented senior leadership team.

You’ll bring a dynamic approach to leadership, drive innovation, and ensure that Dorset Council remains a leader in modern public service excellence.

• shape and deliver the council’s strategic priorities, fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and productivity
• act as an ambassador for Dorset, influencing at regional and national levels to secure investment and innovation
• lead and develop a high-performing team, ensuring resources are aligned to achieve long-term objectives
• oversee transformation programmes to deliver excellent, cost-effective services and drive continuous improvement
• demonstrate crisis management capabilities by responding effectively to challenges and showing calmness under pressure.

About you:
We’re looking for a leader who thrives on challenge and has a track record of delivering change in complex environments.

Whether you’re an experienced Chief Executive or ready for your first role at this level, you’ll bring:

• proven experience in strategic leadership within a large, complex organisation
• exceptional political awareness and the ability to navigate a multi-stakeholder environment
• a passion for community impact, with a strong commitment to diversity, equality, and sustainability
• the ability to foster accountability and uphold ethical principles across the organisation

Why Dorset Council?
This is an unparalleled opportunity to live and work in one of the UK’s most desirable locations. With a strong financial foundation, forward-thinking leadership, and a clear ambition for the future, you’ll have everything you need to succeed.

If you would like an informal conversation with the council leader, Cllr. Nick Ireland, please contact Erin Lawrence, Recruitment & Attraction Lead, at [email protected] or call 01305 838281 and we will arrange this for you.

This post involves working with children and/or vulnerable adults and/or having access to significant information about them. It will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. See our policy on the employment of ex-offenders. 

Salary is expected to be in the range of £185,000 - £200,000, subject to final approval.

A generous relocation package is payable, of which up to £8,000 (of HMRC eligible elements) are free of tax. We can offer you help to move whether you are looking to buy or rent, depending on your circumstances.  

Our package includes: 

• an initial advance of up to £2,500 payable when you start 
• help towards fees associated with buying/selling (up to £6,500) 
• an option to receive help towards your rent or mortgage in the first two years 

Dorset is a place of stunning natural beauty, vibrant communities, and endless potential. Our vision is clear, we are working together to create a fairer, more prosperous, and more sustainable Dorset for current and future generations.

We’re looking for an exceptional leader to drive this vision, deliver transformation, and champion innovation in public service. If you’re ready to lead with ambition, vision, and impact, we’d love to hear from you.

We are challenging ourselves to become a more diverse and inclusive organisation. We recognise that recruitment and inclusion of individuals with diverse skills, perspectives and backgrounds will bring real strength to the council and our communities. We have a commitment to equality and welcome applications from everyone. 

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. We offer an interview to everyone who declares a disability and meets the essential criteria for the role. We are keen to make our interviews accessible. Let us know on your job application if you have a disability and need any reasonable adjustments. 

We also look for applicants who share our commitment to our values. We will ask you to evidence when you have demonstrated them as part of the selection process.