Jess Gibbons, who has been chief operations officer at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council since December 2021, is likely to join the council on March 18 if councillors approve her appointment.
She is currently responsible for all operational services at BCP Council, including environment, infrastructure, regeneration, customer, arts and property, planning and destination and commercial operations.
Prior to working with BCP, she was director for communities and neighbourhoods with Wiltshire Council and director of community services for Camden.
Ms Gibbons currently lives in Wiltshire but will be moving to Brighton and Hove as soon as possible.
Speaking about her appointment, Ms Gibbons said: “I’m thrilled and excited to be offered this extremely important role at one of the most vibrant and innovative cities in the country.
“Having worked at a senior level across the private, voluntary and local government sectors, the role and place are a natural progression and perfect fit for my values and skills.
“The council and local government in general are going through a critical period of change and I will be grasping this opportunity and helping pivot the organisation and place to make the most of our potential.
“Brighton and Hove is similar to Camden, where I grew as a local government officer, as it’s diverse, edgy and creative, but as a coastal city it also faces similar challenges to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
“I’m looking forward to working with the political leadership and council staff to help make the city an even better place to be for its residents, businesses and visitors.”
Will Tuckley is the council’s interim chief executive, having been recruited to replace Geoff Raw who left in May.
Council leader Bella Sankey said: “We’re absolutely delighted to recommend Jess for appointment at such a critical time for the city.
“We had an exceptionally strong field of candidates, but Jess’s energy, values, vision, breadth of experience and knowledge in so many different areas set her apart.
“As our new permanent chief executive, Jess will be key in driving forward our four year Council Plan to deliver high-quality services and to continue developing a proud, healthy, fair and inclusive city where everyone can thrive.
“As council leader, I’m very much looking forward to working with Jess and I believe we have chosen the ideal chief executive for our council and city.”
Councillors will vote on Ms Gibbons’ appointment in a meeting on December 14.
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