LOOKING for a new job? The vacancy has just been advertised for a new chief executive at Dorset Council, paying up to £200,000 a year.

The post also comes with generous financial help of up to £8,000, tax free, for moving costs and an 'initial advance' of £2,500 when you start work.

There is also an option to receive help towards your rent or mortgage in the first two years.

The position is to replace the existing postholder, Matt Prosser, who will be moving to New Zealand later in the year to take up the chief officer post at Wellington City Council.

Mr Prosser has worked in Dorset prior to the April 2019 re-organisation overseeing the shadow unitary authority and the creation of Dorset Council. He has also headed up the national association for senior council officers.

Mr Prosser will be leaving Dorset as the authority faces one of its most challenging budgets yet and the prospect of reorganisation at the council, which could see hundreds of job losses.

Both come within months of the Liberal Democrats taking control from the previous Conservative administration at the May 2024 elections.

The job advert for the position says: "Dorset is a county like no other – a place of stunning natural beauty, thriving communities, and opportunity. Dorset Council is at the forefront of public service transformation, committed to innovation, inclusivity, and delivering meaningful impact for residents, businesses, and the environment…

"As Chief Executive, you will be the driving force behind Dorset Council's strategic vision and delivery, working alongside ambitious political leadership and a talented senior leadership team.

"You'll bring a dynamic approach to leadership, drive innovation, and ensure that Dorset Council remains a leader in modern public service excellence."

To go with the advert the Lib Dem leader of the council, Nick Ireland, has fronted up a video, overlaid with pictures of the county, staff and residents, in which he explains the basis of the Council Plan – telling the audience that the authority needs to be "more modern, embracing new technology."

He says the new chief executive should be "personable and open" to "rally the troops and provide leadership to give the best for residents."

You can watch Cllr Ireland's video here –