Durham is a beautiful and diverse county. Our natural and cultural assets define an area of the country that has opportunity in abundance. Well-connected and welcoming, we are a centre for innovative business and manufacturing – and we are determined to create more opportunities right across County Durham. The diverse nature of our county means we also face some challenges – and we are determined to meet them head on and create opportunities and possibilities for everyone – wherever they live or work.

Our people and businesses are the heartbeat of the county, developing ideas and products that are renowned not just here, but nationally and internationally too. We have a thriving economy and a plan to ensure our towns and villages are vibrant and supportive of local communities.

We now have an exciting new opportunity to lead the council’s management of corporate affairs and to support the Chief Executive and council leaders to deliver the strategic priorities of the council. This newly created, high profile role reports directly to the Chief Executive and will work closely with the Corporate Management Team, you will have responsibility for a portfolio of services including corporate strategy, stakeholder management, corporate planning and performance, corporate communications and media.

This role is key to the council and pivotal to our success. You’ll be the leader behind our strategic narrative, helping us to listen to our communities, communicate effectively with our residents, partners and key stakeholders and you will work closely with central government to ensure we promote County Durham at the highest levels and are a voice in government decisions making. This diverse role also provides the opportunity to work in partnership with our leading politicians on the strategic issues that are important to the county. We are also taking forward a corporate change and improvement programme - with a focus on ensuring we listen to local people and deliver services that people value – and you will be working with the chief executive in bringing this to life. You’ll also be promoting County Durham as a vibrant place to work and live, whilst creating a clear sense of place.

We are looking for a people person - highly skilled in strategy development and communications and with experience of working at a strategic level - you’ll be well versed in best practice. You will have the ability to clearly translate strategic vision into reality, and with an understanding of issues facing local government, you’ll quickly gain credibility. With your excellent people skills, you’ll build strong partnerships, inspire teams and work confidently with senior figures. The role provides an excellent career opportunity to work closely with the Chief Executive, Corporate Management Team and our cabinet in one of the largest councils in the country.

If you relish challenge and have the energy, enthusiasm and skills to make a real impact and deliver the best possible outcomes, then we would like to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion about this exciting role, please contact our consultants at Penna: Nick Raper on 07715 690 463 or Kelly Ridley on 07709 512415.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.