Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 12, 2025

Purpose: Proposed restructure based on a comprehensive evaluation of current and projected workload demands, the need to enhance operational efficiency, and the alignment of resources with the Council’s strategic and corporate objectives.

Content: RESOLVED that Cabinet approves the financial implications of the proposed structure for the Executive Suite in Appendix B.   Reasons for decision 1.     A temporary structure had been in place in the Executive Suite since June 2024, following the change in political administration in 2023. It was determined that PA duties could be delivered more efficiently and effectively by integrating them within the Executive Suite’s existing team, ensuring better alignment with the organisation’s structure and needs. 2.     To meet the increased administrative demands of the new Leader of the Council and the top-tier senior leadership team, a temporary PA role was introduced and filled by a highly experienced agency worker. This individual has demonstrated strong capability, commitment, and potential for long-term development within the organisation. 3.     The overall demand for PA support had risen in recent years, reflecting the growing complexity of leadership functions. This demand was expected to increase further in light of the anticipated Local Government Reorganisation. A stable, permanent staffing structure was now essential to provide service continuity, reduce operational risk, and maintain high standards of support. 4.     Resilience at the PA level was critical to managing fluctuating workloads, complex diary and meeting arrangements, urgent correspondence, and coordination across multiple departments. 5.     In addition, the newly created post of Director of Place Transformation, part of the Council’s Senior Leadership restructure, would require PA support and this would be provided by the new proposed post.   Alternative Options Considered 1.     Discontinue the Temporary Agency Role – Ceasing the temporary arrangement would increase the burden on the existing PA team, who were already managing high workloads. This would likely result in delays in response times, reduced quality of service, and staff dissatisfaction. Extend the Temporary Agency Assignment – While this would maintain short-term operational capacity, it did not provide the long-term benefits of continuity, skill retention, and team stability. It would also mean continued reliance on agency expenditure and may result in the loss of a trained individual should they seek permanent employment elsewhere.