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The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales (“PSOW”) plays a critical role in improving public services and upholding standards of conduct within local government across Wales. PSOW investigates complaints involving Welsh public services, allegations of breaches of the Code of Conduct by Welsh Councillors and undertakes reviews into wider systemic failures, providing recommendations for improvement. A unique organisation, it covers the entirety of the devolved public sector in Wales and, as a result, plays a leading role in ensuring Welsh public service is as fair, transparent and effective as it can be.
Employing 80 people, PSOW enjoyed a record year in 2023/24, closing more cases than ever before and handling 10,000 cases. Despite being contacted by more people than ever, the Ombudsman has maintained the high quality of their work, with 93% of reviews finding that the original decision was correct. All the while, maintaining internal staff satisfaction with 75% of staff agreeing that PSOW is a good place to work.
PSOW is now seeking an Executive Director, Corporate Resources who will report to the Ombudsman (as the Accounting Officer) and act as their Chief Financial Adviser. As one of two Executive Directors, the individual will play a crucial role leading the organisation and providing strategic direction as well as ensuring that PSOW is a safe, well-run and inclusive workplace.
Looking outward, as leader of PSOW’s wider systemic improvement work, this role also presents an exciting opportunity for an ambitious professional to have an impact on the quality of Welsh public service and Welsh life. The organisation therefore seeks a strategic thinker who can build and support high-performing teams and who is passionate about public service delivery and improvement.
An experienced Finance professional, or an individual who has led the Finance function as part of a wider portfolio, the individual will bring experience of working in a complex stakeholder environment and driving change in this environment. A public or third sector professional, or a private sector professional with a public service ethos, this individual will enjoy a fantastic opportunity to help shape the PSOW of the future, leading on the development of its new strategic plan.
For further information, including to view the candidate brief, please visit www.odgers.com/93078 or contact the Odgers Wales team on OdgersWalesPractice@odgers.com for a confidential conversation.
