The Appointments Panel of Greenwich Council met on Tuesday 2 June 2026 to consider the shortlisting of candidates for the significant role of Director of Place and Growth. The meeting's agenda indicated that the panel would determine which applicants would proceed to the next stage of the selection process.

Shortlisting: Director of Place and Growth

The primary item scheduled for discussion was the shortlisting of applicants for the position of Director of Place and Growth. This role, reporting to the Chief Executive, is responsible for developing and promoting the borough's vision for place and growth, alongside key strategies such as the Local Plan, Inclusive Growth Plan, and Economic Development Plan. The Director of Place and Growth is tasked with leading the physical, economic, and social regeneration of the borough by attracting investment, supporting businesses, and improving employment opportunities for local residents. This includes maximising land use, fostering sustainability, increasing the supply of affordable housing, and developing associated infrastructure. The role also encompasses the strategic management of the Council's land and property assets, and overseeing services related to regeneration, development planning, capital projects, property, economy, and skills.

The job description outlined the expected outcomes for the Director of Place and Growth, which include leading the Directorate's Senior Management Team, contributing to corporate policy formulation, and providing advice to elected Members. The role requires the development and implementation of strategic priorities and performance targets, alongside fostering customer engagement and consultation. Collaboration with key stakeholders and partners is also a crucial aspect of the position. The Director is expected to act as an ambassador for the borough, promoting its image and forming strategic alliances. Furthermore, the role involves leading on the use of geographic and spatial information to assess the borough's future needs, managing the directorate's budget effectively, and participating in emergency planning and election conduct.

The person specification for the role highlighted the need for experience in creating a clear vision, inspiring staff, and showcasing the borough to attract investment. Candidates were expected to demonstrate successful experience in managing complex workloads, diverse services, and multi-disciplinary teams, as well as experience in changing organisational culture and motivating staff. The ability to manage competing priorities, work with diverse communities, and possess political awareness were also key requirements. A thorough understanding of the government's agenda for the managed services and experience in managing large, complex budgets were also specified.

The meeting was scheduled to take place in Committee Room 6 at the Town Hall, Wellington Street, Woolwich SE18 6PW. The agenda also included standard procedural items such as apologies for absence, urgent business, and declarations of interest. The agenda indicated that a decision would be made regarding the exclusion of the press and public for the remainder of the meeting, which would then proceed in closed session for the shortlisting process.