Issue - meetings

To consider the recent appointments process for the Interim Executive Director of Children’s Services. (To Follow)

The Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help advised the committee that a vacancy had arisen following the resignation of Sarah Parker, Executive Director People – Children’s Services, who had ended her employment with Dorset Council on 31 December 2019.

Members were informed that the post of Executive Director People – Children’s Services formed  part of the Dorset Council Senior Leadership Team, and had a statutory role within the authority, holding responsibility for:

·         schools and learning

·         children’s care and protection

·         commissioning and partnerships

·         safeguarding and standards

Theresa Leavy had been working alongside the former Executive Director as part of the consultation work for the “Blueprint for Change”. 

Following a member led appointment’s process Ms Leavy had been invited to take an interim lead for the services functions and statutory role.  Members of the committee agreed that this proposal would provide continuity for the service and were satisfied that Ms Leavy met the requirements of the role.

As a point of clarification,  the Chief Executive confirmed that the salary payment would be within the Executive Director salary range.

Decision

(a)       That following a member led appointment process, Theresa Leavy be appointed to the position of Interim Executive Director People – Children’s Services, for a period of 12 months from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020.

(b)       That in consultation with the Portfolio Holders for Children, Education and Early Help and Corporate Development and Change, authority be delegated to the Chief Executive, for the potential option to offer a further interim period of up in 6 months.