Purpose

Proposed
restructure based on a comprehensive evaluation of current and
projected workload demands, the need to enhance operational
efficiency, and the alignment of resources with the Council’s
strategic and corporate objectives.

Content

RESOLVED that Cabinet
approves the financial implications of the proposed structure for
the Executive Suite in Appendix B.
 
Reasons for
decision

1.    
A temporary structure had been in
place in the Executive Suite since June 2024, following the change
in political administration in 2023. It was determined that PA
duties could be delivered more efficiently and effectively by
integrating them within the Executive Suite’s existing team,
ensuring better alignment with the organisation’s structure
and needs.

2.    
To meet the increased
administrative demands of the new Leader of the Council and the
top-tier senior leadership team, a temporary PA role was introduced
and filled by a highly experienced agency worker. This individual
has demonstrated strong capability, commitment, and potential for
long-term development within the organisation.

3.    
The overall demand for PA support
had risen in recent years, reflecting the growing complexity of
leadership functions. This demand was expected to increase further
in light of the anticipated Local Government Reorganisation. A
stable, permanent staffing structure was now essential to provide
service continuity, reduce operational risk, and maintain high
standards of support.

4.    
Resilience at the PA level was
critical to managing fluctuating workloads, complex diary and
meeting arrangements, urgent correspondence, and coordination
across multiple departments.

5.    
In addition, the newly created post
of Director of Place Transformation, part of the Council’s
Senior Leadership restructure, would require PA support and this
would be provided by the new proposed post.

 
Alternative Options
Considered

1.    
Discontinue the
Temporary Agency Role – Ceasing the temporary arrangement would
increase the burden on the existing PA team, who were already
managing high workloads. This would likely result in delays in
response times, reduced quality of service, and staff
dissatisfaction.
Extend the Temporary Agency
Assignment – While
this would maintain short-term operational capacity, it did not
provide the long-term benefits of continuity, skill retention, and
team stability. It would also mean continued reliance on agency
expenditure and may result in the loss of a trained individual
should they seek permanent employment elsewhere.