The Staffing Committee of Waltham Forest Council was scheduled to consider the appointment of a new Strategic Director of Resources. The meeting's agenda also included standard procedural items such as apologies for absence and declarations of interest.

Chief Officer Appointment: Strategic Director of Resources

The primary item scheduled for discussion was the appointment of a new Chief Officer to the role of Strategic Director of Resources. The report pack indicated that the committee was to interview candidates for this position. The role is crucial for providing high quality strategic and business leadership to ensure delivery of the strategic and operational objectives, meeting statutory targets in a 'value for money' manner. The Strategic Director of Resources is also designated as the Council's statutory Chief Finance Officer, responsible for financial strategy and policies, and for the London Borough of Waltham Forest's Local Government Pension Fund.

The report pack outlined that the appointment process was underway due to the resignation of the current postholder. It stated that two candidates were included in the pack for the committee's consideration, with a final shortlist pending further officer interviews and stakeholder panels. The committee was recommended to Interview and decide an appointment as appropriate for the post of Strategic Director of Resources.

The job description for the Strategic Director of Resources detailed significant responsibilities, including acting as the Council's strategic advisor on all resource and financial matters, developing and implementing strategies to meet the Council's targets, and ensuring strong financial management. The role also involves leading the development of a customer-focused approach and contributing to the corporate management and strategic direction of the council as part of the Senior Leadership Team. The postholder would be accountable for a gross council-wide budget responsibility of £1.026 billion, including schools funding, and a net council-wide budget of approximately £350 million. They would also oversee a capital programme of £733 million over 10 years and manage a pension fund exceeding £1 billion. The role includes direct line management of senior management teams responsible for significant resources and operational service delivery.

The report also included guidance on the Monitoring Officer's advice regarding bias and pre-determination, reminding members that while predisposition is lawful, a closed mind or bias can make a decision unlawful.