Chief Executive Officer, Newton Abbot Town Council

Chief Executive Officer, Newton Abbot Town Council

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Role: Chief Executive Officer

Location: Newton Abbot, TQ12 1JQ

Contract: Permanent, 37 hours per week (with evening and weekend working)

A town with momentum — and a leadership role with real influence.

Newton Abbot is a place with energy, identity and ambition. A historic market town with a proud civic tradition, a lively events programme and major regeneration underway. With new councillors joining in 2027, assets transferring from the District Council and wider changes across Devon, this is a rare chance to help shape a town’s future at a defining moment.

About the role

This is a high‑impact leadership role at the heart of a community that values its council. You’ll be the Council’s Proper Officer, but also its strategic leader, the person who helps Newton Abbot navigate change, strengthen partnerships and turn ambition into outcomes. You will lead a committed officer team, support 18 councillors, and steer an organisation that delivers services, manages assets, runs cultural programmes, supports events and plays a visible role in civic life.

You’ll work across everything that makes a town feel alive: public spaces, heritage and the museum, events, cultural identity, community organisations and relationships with Teignbridge, Devon and the voluntary sector.

And as the Council takes on new responsibilities and prepares for wider changes in local government, you’ll play a central role in building organisational capacity — strengthening systems, developing staff and ensuring the organisation is ready for the future.

You’ll represent Newton Abbot confidently within the evolving local government landscape, including the Local Government Review and future Unitary arrangements. This is a role with breadth, influence and visibility, one where your leadership will be felt across the town.

About you

You’ll have experience in senior leadership, governance, and financial oversight of a significant budget, bringing the confidence to steward public funds responsibly while building the organisational capacity needed for an ambitious council. You’ll be comfortable navigating political environments and building trust with partners, staff and residents.

You’ll bring a leadership style that is calm, collaborative and grounded in good judgement — someone who can advise councillors with clarity and balance, motivate a small team, and strengthen systems as the Council takes on new responsibilities.

If you’re motivated by improving outcomes for residents and want a role where your leadership is visible and valued, this is the right place.

What do we offer

• 25 days annual leave (rising to 28 after five years)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• A welcoming, committed team and a community that values its council

Interview date: In person on 12 th October and 14 th 2026

If you believe in strong local leadership, community‑centred public service and the opportunity to shape a town with momentum, we would be delighted to hear from you.

2 Amory Building
Cheriton Bishop
Devon EX6 6JH
Contact us
Company number: 12545316