About Devon County Council

A county of scale. A role with impact.

Devon County Council is over 110 years old and in so many ways, its history reflects the changing way of life over that time for the people of Devon.

Devon is one of England’s largest and most diverse counties, serving around 800,000 residents across vibrant cities, historic market towns, coastal communities and remote rural areas. 

At Devon County Council, our purpose is simple: to help people live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives. Every day, our services support children and families, protect vulnerable adults, maintain critical infrastructure, champion economic growth and help communities thrive. 

The work is complex, the challenges are significant, and the opportunity to make a difference is unparalleled.

A pivotal moment for Devon 

Local government is changing. Across Devon, we are working with partners to explore the future shape of local government and the opportunities presented by devolution. 

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rethink how public services are designed and delivered, ensuring they remain sustainable, responsive and focused on the needs of residents. 

For leaders, it offers something rare: the chance not only to lead high-performing services, but to help shape the future of local government itself. 

Leading change that matters 

Alongside this evolving landscape, we remain focused on the outcomes that matter most. 

For children and families, that means creating services that intervene earlier, protect the most vulnerable and help every child thrive. 

For communities, it means ensuring public resources are used wisely, services are financially sustainable and investment is directed where it makes the greatest impact. 

The leaders who join us now will help shape both immediate outcomes and long-term transformation, working across organisational and system boundaries to deliver lasting change. 

Why Devon? 

Few places offer the combination of professional challenge and quality of life found in Devon. 

Here, you can lead services that affect hundreds of thousands of lives while enjoying access to stunning coastline, two national parks, thriving cities, excellent schools and vibrant communities. 

Whether your motivation is delivering better outcomes for children, building financially resilient public services or leading large-scale transformation, Devon provides the platform to make a meaningful difference. 

Join us 

This is more than a leadership opportunity. 

It is a chance to shape the future of public services, influence the direction of local government reform and improve outcomes for generations to come. 

Do it for Devon. Do it for the difference you can make.