The Appointments Sub-Committee of Lambeth Council met on Thursday 23 April 2026. The primary item on the agenda was the shortlisting process for the Director of Adult Social Care position.

Director of Adult Social Care: Shortlisting

The meeting was scheduled to discuss the recruitment process for the Director of Adult Social Care. This role is described as pivotal in shaping and delivering the council's ambition to build a borough that is fairer, greener, and safer, where everyone can thrive. The Director of Adult Social Care will hold statutory responsibilities and is expected to lead service transformation, enhance prevention and integrated care, and champion a values-driven culture. The report pack outlined the recruitment process, which included executive search by Gatenby Sanderson, longlisting by the Chief Executive, and technical interviews.

The report pack recommended that the committee note the appointment process and the job details for the post. It also proposed that the committee provide observations on the recommendations for the shortlist from the search agent and agree on the final shortlist. Furthermore, the committee was asked to agree on the date for the final interview and the candidate presentation topic and final interview questions.

The funding for the Director of Adult Social Care post was stated as £141,000 per annum, with on-costs bringing the total to £189,000. The report also detailed the legal framework governing the appointment of senior staff, referencing the Local Government Act 1972 and the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015, which require the publication of remuneration details for senior employees earning over £50,000 per annum, and identification by name for those earning over £150,000.

The timetable for the recruitment process was provided, indicating that the Appointments Sub-Committee shortlisting meeting was scheduled for 23 April 2026, with engagement panels and final member panel interviews to follow in late April. The report also noted that candidate details were exempt from public disclosure due to containing information relating to individuals.

The role of Director of Adult Social Care is a senior position within Lambeth Council, reporting to the Corporate Director Integrated Health and Adult Social Care. The job description highlights the importance of leading and delivering adult social care services in line with statutory requirements and promoting best practice. It also emphasizes the need to ensure the voice of people with lived experience is central to the council's approach and to develop high-quality, best-value adult social care services. The role also encompasses oversight of sanctuary services, providing support for sanctuary seekers. The position is identified as politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

The person specification for the role outlined essential requirements including in-depth knowledge of adult social care services, relevant legislation, and strategic planning in health and care. It also specified substantial senior operational experience within Adult Social Care, a track record of delivering services in a partnership environment, and experience in leading significant organisational change and high-performance teams. A Social Work Qualification and registration with Social Work England were also listed as essential. The core values and behaviours expected of candidates included equity, justice, accountability, ambition, kindness, and a commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement.

The report pack also included details of the job advert and the job description for the Director of Adult Social Care, which can be found in the JD Director of Adult Social Care 291225.pdf. Further information regarding the shortlisting report is available in the Director Adult Social Care Appointments committee shortlisting report - 14 April 2026.1.pdf.