Peterborough CIty Council to employ new director on six-figure salary to oversee local government restructure

The role titled ‘Implementation Director – LGR’ will report to the chief executives of all seven Cambridgeshire councils which will each contribute to the six-figure salary and recruitment process.

Although the post holder will be employed by Peterborough City Council, they will be expected to be flexible in travelling across the region.

The job description states that the new role is a ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’ which will involve heading up the strategic leadership and delivery of the LGR programme for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

LGR means that from April 2028, the current seven councils in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, including Peterborough City Council, will no longer exist and be replaced by larger unitary councils.

It is part of the government’s plans to transfer more powers and funding from national to local government and move away from the current two-tier system of district and county councils in England.

Explaining the need for an Implementation Director on a six-figure salary, chief executive of Peterborough City Council, Matt Gladstone, said: “This position is a crucial regional appointment to ensure effective co-ordination, delivery, and alignment across organisational boundaries and political contexts.

“It will significantly shape the future of local government through the Local Government Reorganisation programme in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire.

“The successful applicant will work regionally to head the strategic leadership and delivery of LGR – a once-in-a-generation opportunity to influence and shape our thinking and develop the shadow authorities in readiness for implementation of the new unitary authorities.

“They will need to work collaboratively with all regional chief executives and political systems ensuring that the region is ready to deliver improved services, stronger governance, and long-term financial sustainability.

“It is therefore vital for all taxpayers that we appoint the right person for this role, which is why it commands a high salary.

“The role will be employed by Peterborough City Council, although the post holder will be expected to be flexible in travelling across the region.

“Agreement has been reached that regional local authorities will contribute towards the salary and recruitment process.”

At a Peterborough City Council cabinet meeting on November 18, members voted unanimously in favour of Option D to submit to government as their preferred choice for LGR.

This would see Peterborough merge with West Huntingdonshire to form a new authority known as ‘Greater Peterborough’.

However, it is ultimately up to the government which option it decides to implement.

All councils must submit their preferred choice by November 28.