Salary: £81,049 - £83,933 (per annum)
Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)
Contract Type: Fixed term until March 2028
Shape the Future of Cumbria
Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter.
The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria.
As we continue to establish the organisation, supported by funding from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) through the Trailblazers programme, we are seeking a Chief Resilience Officer to help drive our mission to enhance strategic leadership across multi‑agency activity and strengthen the resilience of our local area.
Are you ready to shape the resilience of an entire region?
We are looking for an influential and collaborative Chief Resilience Officer to join the Cumbria Combined Authority’s Senior Leadership Team. You will play a key role in shaping the region’s strategic approach to resilience and supporting delivery of the mayor’s priorities from May 2027.
In this role, you will provide expert advice to the Mayor, Chief Executive and Combined Authority Board on resilience issues and opportunities. You will lead work across Cumbria to strengthen how resilience is planned, coordinated and embedded into wider place‑making and long‑term strategy.
Working closely with partners through the multi‑agency Local Resilience Forum, you will drive improvement, encourage innovation and help ensure Cumbria is equipped to prepare for, withstand and recover from challenges such as natural hazards, economic shocks, public health emergencies and climate impacts.
You will oversee development of Cumbria’s resilience strategy, ensure resilience is integrated across local plans and policies, and support initiatives ranging from emergency response planning to climate adaptation and sustainable growth. You will also strengthen accountability by reporting directly to the Chair of the Local Resilience Forum and leading the creation of a framework that measures progress and outcomes for communities.
A key part of your role will be ensuring that decision‑making happens at the right level and that all communities, including disadvantaged and hard‑to‑reach groups, can shape and benefit from a stronger, more resilient Cumbria.
Who we are looking for…
You will bring strong knowledge of resilience, emergency planning and the UK resilience framework, including the role of Local Resilience Forums. This will be supported by an understanding of place‑based resilience, climate adaptation, sustainability and infrastructure risk, alongside a solid grasp of public‑sector governance, performance and funding.
You will also have an in‑depth understanding of relevant legislation, community and voluntary sector development and social inclusion, together with up‑to‑date awareness of national and local government policy and emerging trends. A degree and relevant postgraduate or leadership qualifications, combined with a track record of continuing professional development, will underpin your professional credibility.
Equally important will be your ability to engage communities effectively, including those who are disadvantaged or typically under‑represented. You will demonstrate inspirational people leadership, fostering an inclusive and learning‑focused culture. Your experience in building long‑lasting relationships and working across departmental and organisational boundaries will enable you to collaborate with and influence a wide range of stakeholders. You will be able to secure support for ideas behind the scenes and help drive the implementation of solutions across the public sector, government, private partners and the third sector.
Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?
If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love to hear from you.
Join us at the start of Cumbria’s journey – and help turn ambition into reality.
Would you like to find out more?
For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the Role Profile.
If you have any queries or would like an informal conversation about this opportunity, please contact Amanda Mays: amanda.mays@cumbria.gov.uk / 07828 669755.
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 20 April 2026
Technical interview date: 29 April 2026
Final interview date: 08 May 2026
Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.