The leadership of England's largest geographical council is set to change hands next year as Dale Owens is recommended for the role of chief executive.
Leadership of England's largest geographical council is set to change hands next year as a new chief executive is recommended for the top role.
The highest administrative position at North Yorkshire Council is expected to be taken up by Dale Owens, subject to final approval at a Full Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday the 18th of November.
The recommendation follows a robust recruitment process to find a successor for the current chief executive, Richard Flinton. Mr Flinton announced his intention to retire in August, drawing a close to a career as a public servant that has spanned four decades.
Continuity at the council will be maintained through the upcoming political cycle, as Mr Flinton will remain in his post until May next year. He will oversee the local elections in North Yorkshire as the returning officer, after which Mr Owens is expected to officially step into the chief executive role.
The incoming leader is currently serving as the chief executive at Gateshead Council, a position he took up in 2024 after working as their director of integrated health and adult services. However, he has significant prior experience in the local area, having previously worked for the former North Yorkshire County Council as an assistant director in health and adult services.
The chair of the chief officer appointment committee and leader of the council, Councillor Carl Les OBE, said:
"Following a thorough and highly competitive recruitment process, I am delighted that the committee is recommending Dale as the next chief executive of North Yorkshire Council.
"Dale demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, a clear strategic vision and a strong commitment to public service. We were also impressed by his understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing our county.
"He is no stranger to North Yorkshire, having previously worked for the former North Yorkshire County Council as an assistant director in health and adult services. Dale went on to progress his career as the director of integrated health and adult services at Gateshead Council before becoming chief executive there in 2024.
"This is a very significant role at a time of acute pressures on local government due to reduced national funding and increased demand for some of our most valued but expensive public services. We are confident in Dale’s ability to lead the organisation through the next stage of its development."
The transition in leadership comes during a critical period for the unitary authority, which is currently the third largest in England by population. The council was formed in April 2023 when eight separate councils were merged into a single organisation. Officials state that the complex reorganisation of local public services has already generated more than £69 million in savings for the county.
Responding to the recommendation, Dale Owens said:
"I am honoured to be recommended for this appointment. I know firsthand what a special place North Yorkshire is with ambitious communities and strong partnerships.
"North Yorkshire Council has made a sound start as a unitary authority thanks to the dedication and focus of its workforce and elected members.
"Subject to approval, I am looking forward to working with councillors, colleagues, partners and residents to build on these achievements and help deliver the best possible outcomes for communities across the county.
"I recognise the strong foundations established under Richard Flinton's leadership and would be proud to lead the organisation into its next chapter."
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