Solace blog

The role of a local authority chief executive has evolved and grown enormously. But what do we mean by this?

A modern chief executive job description will almost invariably talk about the importance of a ‘commercial’ mindset, an ‘entrepreneurial’ spirit, ‘innovative’ ideas and ‘lateral’ thinking. When we look back on chief executive (or town clerk) job descriptions of a decade ago, these skills received very little consideration. However, back in those days, many an elected member would specify that they wanted to see private sector candidates in their shortlists. And they genuinely meant ‘private sector’ – usually right up until the final interview. There was certainly something of a disconnect back in those days.

To read the full article in the MJ, click here.