Agenda item

This report presents to the Committee the proposed changes to the senior management structure of the Council.

Officers introduced the report and outlined what the recommended option 3 would deliver for the council and noted that the structure needs to go hand in hand with a positive culture at the council, which promotes a collaborative working environment. They noted the support for option 3 in the report from chief officers in the council throughout the consultation period. Officers confirmed that should the recommendation be approved, they would move to a formal consultation which is time lined in the report.

Members discussed the proposed structure and questioned whether the council would continue to have an adequate level of expertise in planning if the Director of Enviroment, Transport, and Planning was not a qualified own planner. Officers noted that expertise was delivered across the council at a head of service level. It was noted that Director level posts encompass a wide range of services and therefore could not expect a post holder to be an expert in each area, but instead their role would be to effectively manage their services. It was also noted that the council maintained a desire to deliver the local plan and would be sufficiently resourced.

The proposed structure of the Directorate of People was considered, bringing Children and Adults Services under the same director. Members noted that they were glad to see that resources would be in place at assistant director level in the directorate. Members also noted that they hoped that the new structure would allow closer working between Children and Adults Services and an smooth transition for individuals moving between these services. Concern was raised however about the financial challenges for both Children and Adults Services and whether these changes would assist in tackling these financial challenges. Officers noted that the council continued to try and manage financial challenges and noted that there would be opportunities moving forward for greater integration with health services with the new structure.  

Resolved:

                      i.         The Committee agreed to the Chief Operating Officer progressing with the implementation of the recommended option 3;

                     ii.         The Committee agreed to set up the relevant Appointment Sub-Committees to carry out the necessary selection in line with the HR processes. That this committee delegates sufficient powers to the Sub-Committees enabling them to conduct the recruitment process, select and appoint a candidate, subject to the requirements of the standing orders on appointment.

Reason:     To ensure the council has an appropriate Chief Officer structure to deliver the councils priorities.