If you would like to register for interim opportunities, please email your CV and a brief description of what you are looking for to interim@penna.com
If you would like to register for permanent opportunities, please email your CV and a brief description of what you are looking for to execapplications@penna.com
If you have applied for a role where you will work on an assignment / contract with one of our clients, there are various documents and notices we need to give you as an Employment Business to ensure you are fully informed. The page linked below sets out the possible options, which you should discuss in more detail with your Penna Consultant.
Once you have applied you will receive a confirmation email, if this hasn’t been received within 30 minutes, please email execapplications@penna.com so that we can confirm receipt of your application.
Available roles
Head of Finance & Business Development
Salary £81,285 - £86,344 | Based in Greenwich with hybrid working available
Are you a commercially-minded finance leader ready to shape the future of a growing, values-led organisation?
The Role
Greenwich Service Plus Ltd (GSP) is a commercial provider of bespoke, high-quality service solutions for businesses and schools, delivering everything from ICT and facilities management to integrated services and fleet maintenance. Owned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, GSP is committed to making a meaningful difference to the working lives of its customers and the wider community.
They are now seeking a Head of Finance & Business Development to play a pivotal role in driving their financial strategy and supporting sustainable business growth. This is a unique opportunity to join the senior leadership team of a dynamic and ambitious organisation with a strong social purpose.
Reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, you will lead both the financial and business development functions across GSP and its partner company GSS. This is a high-impact role, combining strategic financial leadership with strong commercial acumen to support the long-term success and growth of the organisation.
Alongside responsibility for robust financial governance, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance, you will also drive commercial planning, identify new income streams, shape business development strategies, and provide clear, data-driven insights to support Board-level decision-making.
Candidates
This role calls for an experienced, qualified finance professional (CIPFA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) who brings:
• Strong strategic and commercial thinking, with the ability to drive sustainable growth.
• Experience in financial leadership roles, either from the commercial or public sectors.
• The ability to work confidently with boards, auditors, and external stakeholders.
• Excellent leadership skills, capable of mentoring teams and fostering innovation.
• A proactive, collaborative, and forward-thinking approach.
This is an ideal opportunity for a finance leader looking to broaden their impact, contribute to a meaningful organisation, and help shape a progressive, customer-focused business.
Why GSP?
GSP is a dynamic organisation with a clear vision for growth, innovation, and social value, and a culture that champions collaboration and new ideas. Their services are trusted by the communities they serve, and their success is built on the dedication and capability of their people. This role offers an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment, alongside a competitive salary and a strong focus on personal and professional development.
Next Steps
If you are ready to take on a new leadership challenge with a values-led organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Please click here to see the Candidate Briefing Pack.
For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact:
• Andrew Tromans – 07805 226301 / Andrew.Tromans@Penna.com
• Carol Coyle – 07500 887849 / Carol.Coyle@Penna.com
Closing Date: Sunday, 27th April 2025
GSP is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all backgrounds and communities.
Business Development Manager
Salary £41,374 - £44,259 | Based in Thamesmead with hybrid working available
Are you a commercially driven professional with a passion for relationships, growth and innovation?
The Role
Greenwich Service Plus Ltd (GSP) is a commercial provider of bespoke, high-quality service solutions for businesses and schools, delivering everything from ICT and facilities management to integrated services and fleet maintenance. Owned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, GSP is committed to making a meaningful difference to the working lives of its customers and the wider community.
They are now looking to appoint a Business Development Manager into a newly-created role to drive revenue growth, secure new opportunities, and shape commercial strategy. This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking company where you’ll deliver impact through sustainable business development.
Reporting to the Head of Finance & Business Development, you will lead on identifying, securing, and managing new commercial opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and shaping corporate and marketing strategies that position the business for long-term, sustainable success.
Candidates
This role calls for an ambitious, commercially minded individual with:
• A track record in business development, sales, or relationship / account management.
• The ability to secure contracts, manage tendering processes, and engage stakeholders.
• An understanding of public sector frameworks and compliance requirements.
• Good communication skills, and a results-driven approach.
• The ability to influence, lead projects, and work collaboratively across teams.
Whether you bring experience from the private or public sector, this is a fantastic opportunity to make your mark in an organisation that values innovation, growth, and social impact.
Why GSP?
GSP is a dynamic organisation with a clear vision for growth, innovation, and social value, and a culture that champions collaboration and new ideas. Their services are trusted by the communities they serve, and their success is built on the dedication and capability of their people. This role offers an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment, alongside a competitive salary and a strong focus on personal and professional development.
Next Steps
If you are ready to take on a new leadership challenge with a values-led organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Please click here to see the Candidate Briefing Pack.
For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact:
• Andrew Tromans – 07805 226301 / Andrew.Tromans@Penna.com
• Kelly Ridley – 07709 512415 / Kelly.Ridley@penna.com
Closing Date: Sunday, 27th April 2025
GSP is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all backgrounds and communities.
Chief Executive
Tees Valley Combined Authority
£160,000 pa
We are Tees Valley. Anything is Possible.
Tees Valley Combined Authority is driving transformational change across the five boroughs of Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees.
Backed by an investment pot of £1.7billion, the organisation is tasked with creating jobs, growing the economy and changing lives through its responsibility and funding over areas such as business support; inward investment; transport; education, employment and skills; culture and tourism; and research and innovation.
As part of the ambitious plans for the region, two Mayoral Development Corporations have been established in the centres of Hartlepool and Middlesbrough. These are tasked with regenerating the towns through driving investment and cutting red tape.
We are now looking for two new leaders to drive forward these ambitious plans.
This key role will involve setting and driving the strategic vision for the region, working collaboratively with the Tees Valley Mayor, board members, committees, and local authorities to deliver transformative economic outcomes for the Tees Valley.
For further information go to: www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/jobs or contact our recruitment partners at Penna: Julie Towers on 07764 791736 or Nick Raper on 07715 690463.
Closing date: Sunday 20th of April 2025
Director of Inward Investment and Marketing
Tees Valley Combined Authority
£129,103 pa
We are Tees Valley. Anything is Possible.
Tees Valley Combined Authority is driving transformational change across the five boroughs of Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees.
Backed by an investment pot of £1.7billion, the organisation is tasked with creating jobs, growing the economy and changing lives through its responsibility and funding over areas such as business support; inward investment; transport; education, employment and skills; culture and tourism; and research and innovation.
As part of the ambitious plans for the region, two Mayoral Development Corporations have been established in the centres of Hartlepool and Middlesbrough. These are tasked with regenerating the towns through driving investment and cutting red tape.
We are now looking for two new leaders to drive forward these ambitious plans.
This role is responsible for driving inward investment, marketing, and communications to enhance the region’s economic growth and reputation. The position involves developing and executing a dynamic strategy to promote Tees Valley as a leading destination to attract business investment from the UK and internationally while managing investor relations, key stakeholders, Business Board and local authorities.
For further information go to: www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/jobs or contact our recruitment partners at Penna: Julie Towers on 07764 791736 or Nick Raper on 07715 690463.
Closing date: Sunday 20th of April 2025
One Million +1 Reasons to choose Birmingham
Director of Regulation and Strategy
Birmingham City Council
£131,200 to £169,980
Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on one of the most critical periods of Birmingham City Council's future? In the face of unprecedented financial challenges, Birmingham City Council is committed to transforming and improving our services, particularly within Housing, to meet the evolving needs of our citizens. With a clear focus on delivering tangible results, we are seeking dynamic individuals who can bring their expertise, resilience, and collaborative spirit to help us achieve this transformation.
As part of our Improvement Recovery Plan (IRP), we are working to ensure our housing services are responsive, efficient, and aligned with our broader goal of driving positive change across the city. The urgency of this transformation is underscored by current economic pressures, and we are determined to safeguard and enhance the wellbeing of all our residents through effective, impactful service delivery.
Birmingham City Council is embarking on an ambitious journey, with a comprehensive plan to invest £5 billion in housing stock over the next 30 years. This includes £1.4 billion to bring all existing housing up to Decent Homes Standards within the next eight years. Additionally, we are committed to implementing net-zero infrastructure projects, retrofitting and greenifying 700,000 homes, and building over 30,000 new homes over the next decade.
With our new Managing Director and a renewed vision, we are focused on creating a city where everyone has the choice to live healthy, happy lives. We are a modern, -thinking council with priorities centred on children, housing, health, jobs, and skills. This role is central to our recent restructure, ensuring we provide strategic direction and secure operational compliance for our housing services, in alignment with our broader corporate goals.
We need someone who can work collaboratively across and beyond the council, fostering strong relationships with staff, Members, partners, stakeholders, and tenants alike. This role requires a real appetite for delivery and impact, with a clear focus on improving and increasing tenants' satisfaction.
As part of our senior leadership team, you will have a strong understanding of the national, regional, and local housing sector context and challenges. You will have experience of leading in a regulatory environment, with the ability to manage large-scale community regeneration and engagement programs. Your ability to nurture positive relationships with politicians, government bodies, and regulatory agencies will be crucial to your success.
In essence, this is a leadership role that calls for someone who is passionate about shaping the future of Birmingham City’s housing services and driving transformation that will benefit all. If you are ready to be part of this exciting journey, we want to hear from you.
Close date: Sunday 13th of April 2025
To find out more, please contact our retained consultants at Penna: Carol Coyle on 07500 887849 or Pete John on 07701 305617 or Amin Aziz on 07709 514 141
To download a candidate briefing pack click apply now
HR Director & London Regional Employers’ Secretary
Salary: Circa £90K | Location: London
Are you ready to shape the future of London’s public services?
This is your chance to make a real impact across the capital by leading workforce strategy and innovation for London Councils. As the HR Director & London Regional Employers’ Secretary, you’ll empower London boroughs by sharing best practices, driving transformation, and ensuring that our HR policies enable teams to deliver on London’s shared ambitions.
About the Role
In this pivotal position, you will:
• Act as the strategic HR lead for London Councils, guiding workforce policies that support our mission.
• Serve as Secretary to the Greater London Provincial Council and Employers’ Forum, directly advising on workforce matters and managing key meetings.
• Oversee the London Agreement, setting pay and conditions for borough employees.
• Promote innovative employment models to enhance public service delivery across London.
• Provide expert advice on HR best practices and legislative responses.
• Manage the HR Metrics service, transforming data into actionable insights for London’s authorities.
• Lead and inspire HR teams, ensuring they thrive in an inclusive and equitable environment.
About you
We’re looking for a strategic leader with expert knowledge of delivering HROD services in the public sector. You should have proven experience working with senior leaders, managing negotiations, and influencing outcomes effectively. Exceptional communication skills are essential to engage confidently with a wide range of stakeholders and to navigate complex employee relations environments. You’ll work in partnership across council officers and elected members and be at the forefront of Trade Union negotiations and consultation processes.
A passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion is vital as is your ability to analyse workforce metrics and transform data into actionable insights. If you thrive in dynamic environments and can lead and inspire HR teams to deliver their best, this could be the role for you.
Why Join Us?
London Councils is at the heart of improving life for Londoners. We run a number of services on behalf of our members, providing opportunities for all residents, including: the Freedom Pass, Taxicard, Health Emergency Badge and grants programme for voluntary sector organisations.
The London Regional Employers' Organisation, part of London Councils, is one of eleven regional groups representing local authorities across the UK. It manages the London Agreement on pay and conditions for borough staff, provides secretariat support to key committees, and helps resolve employment disputes
Join us and lead initiatives that make a difference to the communities we serve, and lead workforce innovation for London’s future!
Call our retained recruitment partner Penna for more information:
• Ali Tasker on 07514 728114 or email: ali.tasker@penna.com
• Rachael Morris on 07840 711217 or email: rachael.morris@penna.com
Closing date: Sunday 6th of April
Technical Interviews: Wednesday 16th of April
Final Interviews: Friday 25th of April
To download a candidate briefing pack click apply now.
Director of Public Health
Salary: £123,062 per annum, plus benefits
Location: Shute End/Home Working, Shute End, Civic Offices, Wokingham
We’re thrilled to announce an opportunity for a creative and visionary Director of Public Health to join our dynamic leadership team here at Wokingham Borough Council. We’re seeking a talented individual to really make a difference through leading our pioneering efforts in identifying and addressing our inequalities, often hidden, across our Borough.
We have committed to becoming a Marmot borough to embed prevention, early intervention and address inequalities in all aspects of our work. This is especially important given the significant and continued growth of our Borough and the diversity of its residents. There is a clear focus on improving outcomes for our children, creating healthy environments, and good mental health and wellbeing.
As our new Director of Public Health, you’ll report to the Executive Director of Adults, Children’s and Health, whilst working closely with the Chief Executive and Corporate Leadership team. You’re a statutory chief officer of the authority and the principal adviser on all health matters, including health improvement, health protection and healthcare public health and responsible for delivering excellent public health services for Wokingham residents.
You’ll be the system leader for improving the health and wellbeing of residents, reducing inequalities in health outcomes and protecting local communities in Wokingham. As our DPH, you’ll take on a key strategic and systems leadership role across the Council and our partnerships including the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board, the Wokingham Integrated Partnership Board and other health partners, as well as collaborating closely with all key partners to improve health outcomes including the Police, Fire, schools and the voluntary sector, aligning efforts to maximise impact.
You’ll take a cross-system approach to deliver our ambitious Health and Wellbeing Strategy, ensuring our communities remain safe, healthy, and thriving, and that the building blocks of good health and wellbeing are embedded across all areas of the Council and our partnerships.
We’re seeking an individual with exceptional leadership acumen, a proven track record of partnership working, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels, whist operating in complex partnership settings and navigating the demands of local government, health, and broader public and community organisations.
If you’re passionate about meeting the unique health challenges of Wokingham while capitalising on emerging opportunities, we invite you to join the team. To make a successful application, candidates must be included in either the GMC Specialist Register, the GDC Specialist List or the UK Public Health Specialist Register.
Click here to see the Candidate Briefing Pack.
To find out more, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:
Nick Raper on 07715 690463, or Carol Coyle on 07500 887 849 for a confidential conversation.
Closing date: 6th April 2025
Final Panel/ AAC date: 25th April 2025
Chief Executive – Beside the Sea, Beyond Expectations
Salary: £205,178 per annum + returning officer fees
BCP Council is ready for its next era of leadership – could this be the job for you?
This is more than a job; this is the opportunity to shape the future of one of the UK’s most dynamic coastal regions. Sitting at the heart of a stunning landscape, Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole offer a blend of coastal beauty, thriving urban life, and an engaged, ambitious community.
BCP Council is a local authority transformed - a place that has risen to the challenge of change, rebuilding from previous challenges to become a strong, financially stable, and ambitious council. We’re looking for the next iteration of leader -someone with vision, courage, and the ability to drive real impact across our system.
What We’re Looking For:
You’ll be a pioneering leader capable of navigating complexity across the council and within the wider Pan-Dorset system and local government family. Whether you have a strong public sector background or can demonstrate outstanding political and financial acumen from another sector, you must bring:
Sharp financial stewardship – ensuring stability and forward-thinking growth
True strategic leadership – connecting across departments and partnerships
Unparalleled political acumen – engaging with elected members and stakeholders
A bold, people-first approach – inspiring employees and the community
Commercial insight – to drive efficiency and sustainability
At BCP Council, we are driven by our values:
Passion – We care deeply about our people and place
Innovation – We embrace new ideas and challenge the status quo
Pride – We take ownership of delivering the best outcomes
Respect – We collaborate and listen to each other
Integrity – We do what’s right, always
This is a council that has successfully transformed inadequate children’s services into good, recovered from a best value notice, and taken bold steps towards financial security. Now, we need a leader who will take us beyond expectations.
If you’re ready to define your legacy, lead a council that truly values its people, and do it all in one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal locations, this is your moment.
Please take a look at www.leadatbcp.co.uk for more information about the council and the role.
Apply now – This is the job that will make you.
For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact one of our retained consultants at Penna:
Rachael Morris on 07840 711217 or email: rachael.morris@penna.com
Julie Towers on 07764 791736 or email: julie.towers@penna.com
Ali Tasker on 07514 728114 or email: ali.tasker@penna.com
Strategic Director, Change and Improvement
Tower Hamlets Council
Salary: Highly competitive
Contract: Permanent
Category: Senior Management
Grade: Strategic Director
Location: Town Hall, 160 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1BJ
Working hours: 35 hours p/w
There has never been a more exciting time to work at Tower Hamlets Council.
We are a borough that offers the best of London. We are the fastest growing and most densely populated place in the UK; we provide the country’s third largest economic output; we are steeped in London’s history, and we are one of the most culturally diverse places in the world.
Tower Hamlets is a city within a city – it offers the best of London in one borough. As one of the most visited and high-profile places in the country, the experience of our residents, businesses and visitors is drives everything we do. From the Lower Lea Valley to Canary Wharf and the Isle of Dogs or areas such as Spitalfields, Wapping and the City Fringe or places like Whitechapel, Stepney and Poplar - Tower Hamlets is rich in history and ambition.
We continue to deliver a significant transformation and change agenda together with beginning to deliver the new statutory support package. Tower Hamlets is the pilot for a new kind of Local Government Intervention, with a partnership- based approach. This new model for intervention is a key part of Government’s objective to reset in relationship between Central and Local Government and Tower Hamlets has a responsibility to make it work for the sector as well as for our staff, members, partners and residents.
The role of the Envoys is different to the role of Commissioners in other Government interventions. Unlike under Commissioner models, the council retains all of its Executive and non-executive decision-making powers. Envoys are here to mentor, advise and support the Council to deliver its improvement work, as well as monitor and report progress. During this intervention the Envoys will be focused on working collaboratively with the Council to support our transformation programme.
As our Strategic Director for Change and Improvement, you will lead transformation and change work across the Council, working closely with the Councils senior leadership team and Ministerial Envoys to accelerate delivery against our Ministerial Directions and ensure that our entire organisational focus remains on delivering for our residents. You will lead a dedicated, passionate and committed team.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to influence and deliver real, meaningful change. Your leadership will be instrumental in embedding a new approach to corporate strategy and operational delivery, ensuring the Council's transformation journey is impactful and sustainable.
Key Responsibilities:
• Drive the Council’s transformation programme, delivering necessary change across Tower Hamlets.
• Lead the Council’s improvement agenda, working closely with the Councils senior leadership team and Ministerial envoys to ensure delivery of Secretary of State's directions.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive to deliver the Councils change agenda
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government partners, stakeholders, and elected representatives. Work with senior leadership teams to ensure alignment across the organisation, driving ownership and collaboration on the Council’s improvement journey.
• Lead corporate strategy, policy, partnerships, culture change, and the council’s major change initiatives.
• Oversee the implementation of a new model at the corporate centre designed to enhance service delivery.
• Empower and support innovation, with a focus on improving customer experience, digital solutions, and service performance.
About You:
You will have extensive experience leading large-scale transformation programmes and driving cultural and operational change within local government or a similarly complex environment. You should have a track record of successful delivery and a passion for delivering improved services to residents and communities. It is crucial that you are able to navigate complex political landscapes and take ownership of a high-profile, visible role.
This is a challenging and high-profile role, but one that offers immense career development and satisfaction, enabling you to leave a lasting legacy on Tower Hamlets.
If you’re ready to lead a transformation agenda that will shape the future of one of London’s most vibrant boroughs, apply now.
Use your leadership skills to inspire and motivate your team.
You will need to have the ability to balance strategic leadership and direction with effective operational management. This includes fostering an open and trusting culture with the ability to lead change through others and inspire high levels of performance.
We are looking for an individual with the ability to apply discretion and initiative in dealing with complex issues. You will be authoritative and influential, with highly developed relationship management and networking skills, and the ability to foster joint working across services.
You should be naturally engaging with an ability to inspire and command the respect, trust and confidence of colleagues, council members and other stakeholders. You will be experienced in managing frontline services and you will be committed to being visible, engaging and authentic in managing teams which are often based on estates.
You will be politically sensitive and have a strong belief in the value of local democracy and accountability. You will also have a strong commitment to our values, behaviours and equal opportunity policy, and be ready to demonstrate personal leadership on the importance of diversity.
Our council is a beacon for diversity and inclusion. We want a borough where everyone feels valued and included, and we want a council that collaborates to deliver excellence.
That’s why we look for people with our TOWER values of Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and being Respectful.
To find out more please visit https://recruitment.towerhamlets.gov.uk/
For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:
Amin Aziz on 07709 514141 or email: amin.aziz@penna.com
Julie Towers on 07764 791736 or email: julie.towers@penna.com
Recruitment Timeline:
- Closing Date: Sunday 30th March 2025 (Midnight)
- Preliminary Interviews: W/C 14th April
- Assessment Panels/ Final Interviews: 6th May 2025