Independent Chair – Environmental Services

Overview of Need

EdenServ is a newly established, East Devon Council-owned Local Authority Trading Company created to deliver recycling, waste, and environmental services across the district. As the organisation prepares to commence service delivery in July 2026, it is seeking an Independent Chair to lead the Board through mobilisation and establishment. This is a rare opportunity to shape a new public service organisation from inception, setting its governance, culture, and strategic direction while ensuring strong alignment between commercial delivery and public value outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide independent leadership of the Board, setting agenda, culture, and effectiveness.
• Ensure high standards of governance, accountability, and decision-making.
• Oversee strategy, risk, and performance during mobilisation and early delivery.
• Work closely with the Managing Director, providing support and constructive challenge.
• Act as key interface with the Council Shareholder Committee.
• Establish organisational culture, values, and Board effectiveness from inception.
• Ensure alignment with public service objectives and long-term sustainability.

Candidate Profile – Essential Experience

• Senior Board-level experience, ideally as Chair or Non-Executive Director.
• Experience in complex public sector organisations, LATCos, or regulated environments.
• Track record of leading organisations through change, mobilisation, or start-up phases.
• Experience working with local authority stakeholders.

Desirable Experience

• Local authority trading companies or public sector governance models.
• Waste, environmental services, or infrastructure-led organisations.
• Commercial and operational leadership in complex delivery environments.

Personal Attributes

• Strong independent judgement, integrity, and governance focus.
• Ability to balance commercial performance with public value delivery.
• Confident, collaborative, and constructive leadership style.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.

Remuneration & Appointment

• £500 per day (approx. £20,000 per annum based on up to 40 days).
• Location: East Devon (in-person attendance required).
• Start date: Summer 2026 (mobilisation ahead of July service launch).
• Interviews: June 2026 (in person).