Decision details

To approve the designation of the statutory role of Director of Children’s Services (DCS) from the post of Corporate Director, People, to the post of Corporate Director, Children and Education.

This decision would in other circumstances be taken by Council. However, following my appointment to the post of Chief Executive the currently designated post for the DCS role of Corporate Director of People was vacant, and I have determined to create a new post of Corporate Director – Children and Education, to which the designation would appropriately be assigned.

The approval of the designation of the statutory role of Director of Children’s Services (DCS) to the role of Corporate Director, Children and Education needs to be agreed prior to the next meeting of Council on 15 October 2024, as recruitment of this post has now taken place. The designation will take effect from when the appointee takes up their position.

This decision will be reported to and confirmed at the next meeting of the Council, and it will enable me to perform my role as Head of Paid Service appropriately by designating the statutory role to a new post.

I confirm that in making this decision I have considered the following in line with Wiltshire Council’s Constitution:

Key decision requirements: NA

Views of relevant cabinet member(s), committee chairman, area board(s): Y

Consultation with cabinet member(s), the Leader and Scrutiny (for Executive decisions taken under Emergency Powers): NA

Consultation with local members (as appropriate): NA

Consideration of the area boards and delegated decision checklist for officers on the issue of when and how to involve local councillors and area boards in decisions about local services: NA

Implication of any council policy, initiative, strategy or procedure: Y

Consultation in accordance with requirements and expectations of consultation with the public: NA

Range of options available: NA

Staffing, financial and legal implications: Y

Evidence of due regard having been given to the Public Sector Equality Duty: Y

Risk assessment: Y

Involvement of statutory officers and/or directors: Y (Monitoring Officer)

Regional or national guidance from other bodies: NA

The council’s constitution: Y

This contract is suitable for execution under the e-signature process: NA

The option to replace the Corporate Director for People post was considered which would not involve a change in statutory designation of the DCS. I have decided, however, on a new structure where there will be a Corporate Director post specifically with responsibility for Children and Education. The statutory DCS responsibilities therefore need to be assigned to this role.