About the council
Shaping Devon’s FutureDevon 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.
A brief history of Devon County Council
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.
The story of the County Council begins with the Local Government Act of 1888, which in effect, brought democracy to the county’s local government for the first time. Before that date the smaller towns and rural areas of Devon were governed by unelected magistrates through the Devon Court of Quarter Sessions based at Rougemont Castle in Exeter.
It wasn’t until 16 January 1889 that elections for the first County Council were held. Life wasn’t too comfortable for the early County Councillors. There was no Council chamber so the first meeting took place in one of the courtrooms at nearby Rougemont Castle. But from tiny acorns mighty oaks grow, and so it has been with Devon County Council. In the beginning it operated with a budget of just £50,000. Today we are the largest authority in the South West of England, serving a population of over 800,000.
In its early days, the County Council was strictly men only. Women became eligible for election in 1907 and had to wait 24 years before the first female County Councillor was elected.
A Moment of Transformation. A Future of Impact.
Devon County Council is at a pivotal moment. The government has invited us to explore new structures for local government and strategic arrangements for devolution—offering a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine how we deliver services and support our communities.
This evolving landscape presents an exciting challenge for two critical leadership roles:
- Director of Finance and Public Value
- Director of Children and Young People’s Futures (statutory Director of Children’s Services)
Together, these roles will help shape a modern, efficient, and responsive council—one that delivers better outcomes for residents, especially children and families.
Driving Systemic Change
Our approach is rooted in evidence, collaboration, and transparency. We’re listening to stakeholders, sharing information, and future-proofing our capacity to deliver high-quality services. Financial resilience is critical, and there is an urgent need for reform and innovation.
For the Director of Finance, this means leading a financial strategy that enables change, unlocks efficiencies, and ensures resources are directed where they matter most—frontline services. You’ll play a key role in simplifying structures, eliminating duplication, and aligning investment with our strategic priorities.
For the Director of Children’s Services, this is a unique opportunity to lead the integration of services across health, education, policing, and transport—driving joined-up support that reflects the lived experiences of children and families. You’ll be central to embedding restorative practice and strengthening local accountability.
Leading with Purpose
Devon County Council serves around 800,000 people across a diverse and beautiful county. We’re proud of our commitment to public service and our ambition to deliver better outcomes for all. These roles offer the chance to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking Strategic Leadership Team, shaping services that truly matter.
Devon is ready to lead with purpose. Join us in building a fairer, more resilient future—for every resident, and for every child.