Head of Skills, Education and Employment

The Organisation

The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority was established as a new organisation in early 2024.  It is a public sector employer with access to powers and funding to unlock transport and housing improvements, boost skills provision and help the economy transition to net zero for York and North Yorkshire. The Mayor also holds responsibilities in relation to Policing, Fire and Crime.

Making the most of the combined strengths of the city region and rural powerhouse, the Combined Authority is a long-term commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. By working for us you will play a part in making positive changes, unlocking investment, supporting business and communities to thrive and creating new and better opportunities for people that live and work here.

The Opportunity

The Head of Skills, Education and Employment will lead on the strategic development and delivery of regional skills and employment strategies across the York and North Yorkshire region. This senior role is central to delivering the Mayoral vision and Economic Framework, ensuring the successful implementation of a £30M annual devolved skills funding programme and driving inclusive growth across the region.

The successful candidate will lead the development and delivery of integrated strategies that respond to employer needs, support high-growth sectors, and raise aspirations through education and careers programmes. Reporting into Andy Kerr, the Director of Economy, this is a key leadership role with responsibility for managing specialist teams and working in close partnership with local authorities, national agencies, and education providers.

We are seeking an accomplished strategic leader with extensive experience in the skills and employment sector, underpinned by a thorough understanding of both local and national policy contexts. You will bring the drive and commitment to shape and develop the service, with a background in working in political environments.

Additionally, you will:

• Lead the strategic development of skills and employment strategies aligned with the Mayoral vision.
• Oversee the delivery of devolved skills funding programmes and ensure compliance with governance frameworks.
• Manage the Combined Authority Careers Hub and deliver the all-age careers strategy.
• Represent YNYCA in high-level engagements with government departments and stakeholders.
• Ensure effective resource management, including budget oversight and staff leadership.
• Maintain strategic partnerships with universities, colleges, and training providers.

What you will bring

• Significant leadership experience in the skills and employment sector, with a background of local government or public sector.
• In-depth knowledge of national and regional skills policy and funding landscapes.
• Proven ability to design and deliver large-scale programmes.
• Strong strategic planning, analytical, and performance management capabilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience in driving organisational change, managing budgets and leading diverse teams.

Contact and Apply 

If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity or would like to discuss the role in more detail, please visit our dedicated campaign site for more information: YNYCA career opportunities > NY Resourcing

Key Dates

Closing date: Sunday 21 September

Final Interview: Friday 3 October (in person – York)