The Appointments Sub-Committee of Lambeth Council met on Thursday 27 August 2026. The primary item scheduled for discussion was the recruitment process for the Corporate Director, Growth and Environment. The meeting also included procedural items such as the election of a chair and the declaration of interests.

Corporate Director, Growth and Environment Recruitment

The meeting was scheduled to consider the recruitment process for the significant role of Corporate Director, Growth and Environment. This position, with a salary of up to £180,000 per annum, is responsible for leading strategic functions across regeneration, economic growth, planning, environment, highways, transport, resident services, and the borough's cultural offer. The report pack outlined the process undertaken, which included executive search by Gatenby Sanderson, longlisting by the Chief Executive, and shortlisting by the Appointments Sub-Committee. The final interviews were scheduled to take place during this meeting.

The report pack indicated that the funding for this post is £180,000 per annum, with total budgeted costs of £228,000 including oncosts. The role is described as one of the broadest Corporate Director portfolios in London local government, sitting at the heart of Lambeth's priorities, which include building a fairer, greener, and safer borough as outlined in the Lambeth 2030 Borough Plan. The successful candidate would be expected to have substantial senior management experience in a large and complex public sector environment, with expertise in strategic development and economic growth. They would also be expected to hold collective accountability with the Chief Executive for the delivery of the Borough Plan.

The report pack recommended that the Sub-Committee note the appointment process, exclude the press and public from the remainder of the meeting to discuss exempt information relating to candidate details, and to conduct interviews with the aim of making an appointment if a suitable candidate was identified. The exemption from disclosure was justified under paragraphs 1 and 2 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, relating to information that could reveal an individual's identity.

The recruitment process was designed to achieve a timely appointment, with a detailed timetable provided. This included executive search from April to May 2026, longlisting in May 2026, technical interviews by the end of May 2026, and shortlisting by the Appointments Committee on 6 August 2026. The final interviews were scheduled for 27 August 2026, followed by a Well Founded Objection process concluding on 4 September 2026, after which a conditional offer could be made.

The role requires a strong understanding of the strategic landscape for economy and regeneration, as well as sound political acumen to work effectively with elected members. It also necessitates substantial experience in leading high-performing teams through change, strong financial and contract management skills, and the ability to build effective partnerships. The Corporate Director is expected to champion the council's values of equity and justice, ensure effective management of resources, and foster a collaborative One Lambeth culture. The position is identified as politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.