Director of Local Government Reorganisation

Location: West Sussex (Hybrid Working Across Authority Areas) Contract: Interim / Fixed Term (24–30 Months) Rate/Salary: Competitive / Negotiable (Director Level) IR35: To be confirmed Overview We are recruiting for a Director of Local Government Reorganisation to lead a significant, system-wide transformation programme across multiple authorities. This is a high-profile leadership opportunity to shape the future operating model of local government, ensuring a safe, legal and well-managed transition while maintaining service continuity and financial sustainability. Key Responsibilities * Provide strategic leadership for the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) portfolio * Lead and develop a system-level Portfolio Management Office (PMO) * Oversee multi-disciplinary workstreams including: * Legal and Governance * Finance and Commercial * HR and TUPE * Digital and Data * Communications and Engagement * Assets and Estates * Service Integration * Develop shadow governance and transitional decision-making arrangements * Ensure compliance with statutory, financial and regulatory requirements * Manage programme risk, assurance and reporting at executive and member level * Maintain operational stability throughout transition * Build strong relationships with Chief Executives, Members, Section 151 and Monitoring Officers Essential Experience * Significant Director or Executive-level experience within local government * Proven track record delivering large-scale transformation, merger or structural change programmes * Strong understanding of governance frameworks, local government finance and statutory duties * Experience operating across multiple authorities or complex partnerships * Political awareness and the ability to influence at senior stakeholder level * Demonstrable experience building and leading high-performing programme teams Desirable * Direct experience of Local Government Reorganisation or devolution programmes * Experience establishing PMO structures at system level Why Apply? This is a rare opportunity to lead a legacy-defining programme that will shape the long-term future of local government service delivery. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in designing governance, integration and sustainability frameworks that will impact communities for years to come. For further information or a confidential discussion, please apply or contact directly