The Employment Committee of North Northamptonshire Council met on Thursday 18 June 2026 and established a sub-committee to oversee the recruitment of a new Executive Director of Children's Services. This sub-committee will be responsible for shortlisting, interviewing, and appointing the most suitable candidate for the statutory role.

Appointment of Executive Director of Children's Services

The committee resolved to establish a politically balanced sub-committee of six elected members to manage the recruitment process for the Executive Director of Children's Services. This sub-committee will be delegated the authority to shortlist and interview candidates, and ultimately appoint the most suitable individual for the position. The decision was made to ensure a comprehensive, inclusive, and thorough recruitment and selection process, in line with the council's constitution, to secure the right candidate for this critical statutory role. The role of Executive Director of Children's Services is vital for providing professional leadership and ensuring the council meets its legal obligations concerning the safeguarding and welfare of children. The position has been vacant since the summer of 2025, with the duties temporarily fulfilled by the Director of Social Care of Northamptonshire Children's Trust. The recruitment process, which began with an advertisement on 6 June 2026, is scheduled to conclude with the appointment by the sub-committee on 26 June 2026. The job description for the role highlights significant responsibilities, including undertaking statutory duties as Director of Children's Services, providing leadership and oversight of children's services, managing the contract with Northamptonshire Children's Trust, and overseeing education functions. The salary for the position is between £148,815 and £159,763. The report also noted that the sub-committee's membership would reflect the council's political balance, with four members from the Reform Group, one from the Conservative Group, and one from the Green Party. Additionally, at least one member of the Executive must be part of the sub-committee. A Children's and Young People's Stakeholder Panel will also provide input to inform the sub-committee's decision.