Conducting an Executive Search Driving Cultural Transformation: Appointing a Strategic People Leader in Local Government
The Brief
In October 2024, a progressive local government council partnered with Future Leadership to appoint a new Chief People Officer (CPO). As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the CPO would report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s people and culture strategy while contributing to broader organisational leadership.
The council sought a leader who could operate both strategically and operationally—someone who could wear “dual hats”: leading the people and culture function while also contributing meaningfully to executive-level decision-making. The successful candidate would need to bring clarity around their value proposition as a cultural leader, demonstrate a strong bias for action, and possess the drive to execute strategy effectively
The Process
Led by Partner David Baber the Future Leadership™ team conducted a comprehensive executive search process. This began with in-depth stakeholder consultations to understand the council’s strategic direction, leadership expectations, and cultural aspirations.
A targeted search strategy was executed, leveraging Future Leadership’s extensive public and private sector networks. The team identified a diverse pool of senior HR leaders with demonstrated experience in complex, values-driven organisations. A multi-stage assessment process followed, including assessment, shortlisting, and panel interviews.
Throughout the process, the selection panel received regular updates and candidate insights, ensuring alignment with the council’s expectations. The rigorous and transparent approach enabled the identification of a leader who could confidently step into the role and drive meaningful change.
The Outcome
The appointed candidate is a seasoned executive with a distinguished career across both public and private sectors. Their experience includes senior leadership roles in national organisations, where they led workforce integrity, enterprise transformation, and people and culture portfolios. Most recently, they held dual roles as Executive Director of People and Integrity and CEO of a Registered Training Organisation within a major transport entity.
Their appointment brings a people-centric, outcomes-driven leadership style to the council. With a strong track record of aligning people strategy with organisational goals, they are well-positioned to lead cultural transformation and contribute to the council’s long-term success.
