About the role

Croydon: London’s largest borough. London’s most important leadership role.

A borough with momentum

Croydon is a borough defined by its aspiration. As London’s largest borough, it is home to extraordinary communities, creativity and potential. It sits at the heart of South London’s economy, with the scale, energy and aspiration to shape its own future and its place within London.

Croydon is also a borough that has faced profound challenges. In recent years, the Council has taken decisive action to confront an unprecedented financial crisis. It has made difficult decisions to stabilise its position, strengthen governance, and rebuild the foundations of the Council. That work is well underway. Progress is being made through improving services, greater financial discipline, and a clearer sense of direction.

Now, Croydon must go further and faster.

From recovery to renewal

This moment is not just about recovery. It is about renewal. It is about becoming a Council that is financially sustainable, relentlessly focused on delivery, and trusted by the residents it serves and the communities it works alongside.

Croydon has a clear mandate for that next phase. Executive Mayor Jason Perry has been re-elected for a second term and has set out an aspirational programme focused on delivery, renewal and visible improvements for residents. Supported by a stable senior leadership team and the recent appointment of an experienced Section 151 Officer, the foundations are in place for the next stage of the borough’s journey.

That is why appointing the right Chief Executive is one of the most important decisions Croydon Council will make.

The Council is looking for a leader who understands the scale of the challenge, but who is inspired by the scale of the opportunity. Someone who can work in close partnership with Executive Mayor Jason Perry to translate his democratic mandate into real, meaningful change.

Leading the next chapter

This is a role that demands resilience, clarity and pace. It requires someone who can lead transformation across a complex organisation whilst maintaining a sharp focus on outcomes: better services, stronger communities, and an improved quality of life for residents.
It is also a role about place.

Croydon wants a Chief Executive who will be a visible champion for the borough; someone who will help shape its future, strengthen partnerships and raise its profile locally, regionally and nationally. Someone who will engage openly with residents, communities and businesses, earning trust through honesty, delivery and presence.

Croydon Council wants a Chief Executive who can inspire its workforce, rebuild pride in the organisation, and create a culture that is open, accountable and high performing.

The Council will do this by working more closely than ever with its partners, particularly the voluntary, community and faith sectors, to deliver for Croydon.

A shared commitment to success

One of Croydon’s strengths is the way in which elected members, commissioners and senior officers are working together to drive improvement. There is a shared commitment to long-term success, underpinned by constructive relationships and a collective focus on getting the best outcomes for residents.

The next Chief Executive will play a pivotal role in building on that progress, helping to lead the Council out of intervention and into its next era as a confident, financially sustainable and high-performing organisation.

Croydon deserves nothing less.

The Council is committed to being honest about the road ahead. Financial recovery remains critical. Tough choices will continue to be required. However, it is equally committed to building a Council, and a borough, that is aspirational, confident and forward-looking.

Croydon also wants to play a stronger and more recognised role nationally — helping to shape policy and practice, not just contribute to debate. This role offers the opportunity to ensure Croydon’s voice is heard, its progress is recognised, and its experience helps influence the future of local government.

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of London’s most important boroughs at a defining moment in its history.

If candidates are motivated by purpose, driven by impact, and ready to lead real change, they are strongly encouraged to consider joining Croydon.

Together, Croydon can write the next chapter, realise its full potential, and complete one of the most significant stories in local government.