The Appointments Panel of Greenwich Council was scheduled to meet on Tuesday 2 June 2026. The primary item scheduled for discussion was the shortlisting of candidates for the significant role of Director of Place and Growth. The meeting was scheduled to be held in Committee Room 6 at the Town Hall, Wellington Street, Woolwich SE18 6PW.

Shortlisting: Director of Place and Growth

The panel was scheduled to determine a shortlist of applicants for the position of Director of Place and Growth. This role is a Chief Officer Band A1 position, reporting directly to the Chief Executive, Debbie Warren. The Director of Place and Growth is tasked with developing and promoting the borough's vision for place, alongside key enabling strategies such as the Local Plan, Inclusive Growth Plan, and the Economic Development Plan.

The job description outlines a broad range of responsibilities, including leading the physical, economic, and social regeneration of the borough. This involves attracting inward investment, supporting businesses, enhancing skills and employment opportunities for local residents, and working to reduce inequality. A key focus is on maximising land use, fostering a more sustainable environment, and increasing the supply of affordable housing through both direct delivery and an enabling function. The role also encompasses the strategic management and development of the Council's land and property assets, including disposals and acquisitions, and providing the corporate landlord service. The Directorate of Place & Growth is responsible for Regeneration, Development Planning, Capital Projects & Property, and Economy & Skills.

The person specification for the role highlights the need for experience in creating a clear vision, inspiring staff, and showcasing the borough to attract investment. Candidates were expected to demonstrate successful experience in leading and managing complex workloads, diverse services, and multi-disciplinary teams. Experience in changing organisational culture, motivating staff to a high level of performance, and managing competing priorities were also considered important. The role requires political awareness and the ability to communicate effectively within a politically sensitive environment, along with a thorough understanding of the government's agenda for the services managed and experience of managing large, complex budgets. The successful candidate would also act as an ambassador for the borough, forming strategic alliances and developing effective working relationships with partners.

The meeting was scheduled to take place in accordance with the council's constitution and code of conduct. The agenda also included standard procedural items such as receiving apologies for absence, announcing any urgent business, and members declaring any personal and financial interests. The agenda indicated that a decision was to be made on whether to exclude the press and public for the remainder of the meeting.