Jobs

Lead a Borough with Real Momentum, Big Challenges and Bigger Potential

Newham offers one of the most compelling leadership roles in local government today. As one of London’s largest, youngest and most diverse boroughs, it combines scale, complexity and opportunity in equal measure, and is now entering a critical next phase of its improvement and transformation journey.

Following the Best Value Notice issued in May 2025, the Council has responded with focus, honesty and pace. Independent assessment confirm tangible, consistent progress: the organisation is more professionally run, financial planning is more robust, governance is strengthening, and many services are improving at pace. Children’s Services has achieved an Outstanding judgement from Ofsted, and new leadership capacity is in place across key directorates.

At the same time, the challenges that remain are real. This is the context into which the next Chief Executive will step: a borough that is stabilised, ambitious and forward‑looking, but which needs disciplined, values‑driven leadership to embed consistency and turn momentum into lasting change. For the right leader, the scale and visibility of the opportunity is exceptional.

You will work with a newly elected Mayor and Council following the May 2026 elections, supporting a refreshed administration to set direction, build a shared purpose, and drive delivery across all services. Internally, you will lead a committed and increasingly cohesive senior leadership team, helping to grow a culture that is collaborative, accountable and resident‑centred.

Externally, you will represent a borough with major strategic influence, from the Royal Docks to the Olympic Park, and work with partners across London, government, business and the voluntary sector to help deliver Newham’s 2030 growth ambitions and create the conditions for thriving communities.

We are seeking a confident, inclusive system leader with the resilience, political acumen and clarity of purpose to lead improvement at scale. You will bring a record of delivering change in complex settings, a commitment to equity and inclusion, and the ability to inspire trust across political, professional and community boundaries.

If you want to make an impact that is both immediate and enduring — and to lead a borough with real momentum, big challenges and even bigger potential — we’d love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion about this role and your suitability, please contact our partners at GatenbySanderson: Frazer Thouard (frazer.thouard@gatenbysanderson.com) or Duncan Collins (duncan.collins@gatenbysanderson.com)

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.

Company: Newham London Borough Council

Salary: £227,844 - £238,419

Location: London (Greater), London (Greater)

Sector: Corporate Services

Sector: Corporate Management Team

Job Role: Chief Executive