A senior leader with extensive experience across a broad range of public services is now being recommended for one of the biggest jobs in local government nationally.
Following a robust recruitment process, Dale Owens, who is currently the chief executive at Gateshead Council, is being recommended as our next chief executive.
The recommendation will go before a meeting of Full Council next Wednesday (18 November). Subject to approvals, Dale will replace Richard Flinton when he retires next year.
Richard Flinton successfully steered the council through one of the most complex reorganisations of local public services undertaken this decade, when eight councils became a single unitary authority in April 2023 – a move which has already provided the county with more than £69 million in savings at a critical time.
He announced his retirement in August, after a career as a public servant spanning some 40 years. Richard will stay until May next year to oversee the local elections in North Yorkshire as the returning officer. At this point it is expected Dale Owens will take up the role.
Acknowledging the quality of the candidates who made it through to the final selection process, Cllr Carl Les OBE, chair of the chief officer appointment committee and leader of the council, 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.”
Responding to today’s announcement, Dale 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."
We are England’s largest unitary authority by geography and the third largest per population.