The Employment Committee of Lancashire County Council met on Tuesday 18 August 2026. The meeting agenda included recommendations regarding the committee's constitution, membership, and terms of reference, as well as changes to senior leadership responsibilities.

Constitution, Membership and Terms of Reference

The committee was to consider recommendations concerning its constitution, membership, and terms of reference for the 2026/27 municipal year. This included noting the appointment of County Councillor Stephen Atkinson as Chair and County Councillor Simon Evans as Deputy Chair. The membership of the committee was also to be confirmed, comprising eight county councillors: five from the Reform UK group, one from Progressive Lancashire, one Conservative, and one Labour member. The terms of reference, which outline the committee's purpose and responsibilities, were also to be noted. The committee's purpose is to oversee arrangements for the appointment and dismissal of the Chief Executive, Senior Officers, and other Statutory Officers, as well as specific staffing functions. The terms of reference detail the committee's responsibilities in appointing Senior and Statutory Officers, including approving job descriptions, recruitment arrangements, and interviewing candidates. It also covers conditions of service, disciplinary action, and dismissal procedures for these senior roles. For all other employees, the committee is responsible for determining policy on pension benefit releases where employer discretion is required and monitoring the operation of the Statement of Ethical Standards and the Register of Interests for employees.

Changes to Senior Leadership Responsibilities

The committee was also to consider recommendations for temporary senior leadership arrangements. These changes are intended to support the Chief Executive during Local Government Reorganisation and ensure the continued effective leadership of the Council’s core business. The specific details of these changes were discussed in a part of the meeting that was not open to the press and public, as they involved exempt information relating to individuals and the financial or business affairs of particular persons.