West Northamptonshire Council has begun another search for a permanent chief executive, with the role advertised on 1 June 2026 offering a salary of up to £201,902. Applications will close on 21 June 2026.
The vacancy comes after a previous recruitment drive in late 2025 failed to fill the post. That exercise drew 106 applicants and narrowed the field to six shortlisted candidates, but a cross-party panel including Liberal Democrat leader Jonathan Harris and Conservative opposition leader Daniel Lister could not agree on an appointment. A council spokesperson said the panel was not persuaded it had the right fit this time round, adding the process was valuable and would be reflected upon when recruitment restarted. The unsuccessful round cost £32,430 in advertising.
Martin Henry, the council’s former chief finance officer and deputy chief executive, has been serving as interim chief executive since Anna Earnshaw left in November 2025. Council leader Cllr Mark Arnull of Reform UK said Henry brings both continuity and capability at a time when both are needed. Henry has acknowledged that finances are a significant challenge for the authority.
The permanent chief executive will lead the council and help set its strategic direction. Full details and applications are available through the West Northamptonshire Council jobs portal.
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