Issue - meetings

To consider the Appointment of Interim Head of Paid Service and Chief Executive report.

The Leader of the Council summarised the report and outlined the credentials of the recommended candidate. He said that in view of the imminent departure of the current Head of Paid Service and Chief Executive it had been necessary for the Appointments Committee to consider urgent interim arrangements pending the permanent recruitment to the position.

In response to various questions, the Leader of the Council confirmed that:

·         The appointment was open-ended as it could take up to 5 months for a permanent recruitment.

·         The recommended candidate would be paid on a day-rate on a consultancy contract.

·         The recommended candidate would have a presence in Uttlesford.

·         The recommended candidate would take over as Head of Paid Service and Chief Executive from 1 July 2021.

·         He would keep Members informed of progress.

Councillor Caton expressed concerns over the speed of the recruitment process and the possibility of the recommended candidate working remotely.

CouncillorMerifield said that the Council had had to move quickly to replace the current Head of Paid Service and Chief Executive. She said that the candidate had been recommended by the Local Government Association.

Councillor Criscione said that he did not have any concerns about the speed of the recruitment process and that he held no reservations about officers working remotely.

In response to a question from Councillor Gregory, the HR Manager confirmed that Solace would pick up any IR35 taxation issues and there was therefore no risk to the Council.

Councillor Emanuel said that the recommended candidate’s CV was impressive and commented that remote working had been proven to work.

Councillor Reeve said that the CV was very favourable and that he applauded those involved in the recruitment process.

The Leader of the Council proposed that the recommended candidate for the Interim Head of Paid Service and Chief Executive as set out in the report be approved. Councillor Merifield seconded the motion.

RESOLVED that the recommended candidate for the Interim Head of Paid Service and Chief Executive as set out in the report be approved.

The meeting ended at 6.45 pm.