Breckland Council chief executive Maxine O'Mahony says she is a good example of why diffidence should not stand in the way of ambition.

The road to the Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster where last June she received her award as The MJ's Chief Executive of the Year in front of 1,000 guests began just before the pandemic. She was then a director on the council and recalls: ‘I was happy being a director. I was reluctant to be a chief executive. But I was asked to step into the breach as head of paid service during Covid.'

Her personnel background has given her an insight into how vital a motivated workforce is in delivering quality services and she continues to be a mentor for senior staff

It was her leader, Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, and her colleagues who later entered her for the award. In the submission recalling her appointment in 2020 the entry described how Max became ‘de facto' chief executive, providing ‘leadership, energy and vision'.

When the permanent chief executive post was advertised after a year in 2021 Max was by then no longer reluctant. Perhaps her sporting background as an ex-county netball player and still a coach belied her diffidence. ‘I'm quite competitive,' she admits. ‘And I could see I was making a difference. I'm very driven as an individual and decided I really wanted the job as I was passionate about the place and the people. I went for the job as I didn't want anyone else to get it! There may be others who are reluctant like me but it's really important that you go for it and challenge yourself. Don't write yourself off.'

Max began her career in hospitality and banking –and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel –before joining local government in 2007. Her personnel background has given her an insight into how vital a motivated workforce is in delivering quality services and she continues to be a mentor for senior staff.

Cllr Chapman-Allen, in his award submission to the judges, wrote: ‘Max's people-centric approach – be that for members, officers, businesses or communities – sets her aside as a leader with the right skill sets, the right aptitudes and the right passion for the context in which we operate.'

Among her many initiatives Max took personal charge of a transformation programme called Worksmart which re-wrote many of the council's policies and procedures and invigorated its recruitment process.

She spearheaded a new relationship with Norfolk and Waveney Mind and the Norfolk Community Foundation, creating community supermarkets (the first in the country) and mindfulness centres in some of the local market towns and villages, now being rolled out across the country. She has also been actively involved in projects to house rough sleepers.

The council issued a release after the announcement she had won the award: ‘Maxine O'Mahony's award is a testament to her unwavering dedication and visionary leadership at Breckland Council. Since assuming her role as chief executive, Maxine has spearheaded transformative initiatives that have significantly enhanced the quality of life for residents across Breckland. Her commitment to fostering innovation, community engagement, and delivery through partnerships has set new benchmarks for excellence in public service.'

The release quoted Max as saying ‘I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this recognition from The MJ. This award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the entire team at Breckland Council. Together, we have strived to make a positive impact on our community, and this accolade is a testament to our collective efforts, so this award is for all at team Breckland and my family who always provide unwavering support.'

Cllr Chapman-Allen added: ‘Maxine's leadership as chief executive has been truly transformative for Breckland. Her vision and commitment to excellence have not only brought about significant improvements for our residents, but have also set a standard for local government leadership nationwide. We are immensely proud of her achievements and this well-deserved recognition.'

The judges' summary on The MJ's award website (awards.themj.co.uk/enter-now/winners-archive-interviews) comments: ‘Always a progressive leader and with her coaching mindset steering her forwards, Max's commitment to a new operational model, utilising partnership for the successful delivery of targeted projects and schemes in support of the much-needed services across Breckland, makes her an outstanding chief executive and exemplary in the field of modern leadership.

‘When it comes to people development, Max is passionate about growing our own talent and empowering them to reach their potential. Max has grasped the challenge of being a chief executive with a drive and determination that sets her aside from her peers.

Having done so, she is keen to support and enable those around her to develop and progress within the sector, helping to provide a long-term source of talent. She is a true modern Chief Executive of the Year.'

Max describes the award as one for ‘Team Breckland' and says ‘I've connected with people I wouldn't otherwise have done, talking about a modern council. Thanks to The MJ for putting on these awards and I'll be a judge for next year's one as well. It's really the only real opportunity to recognise and congratulate each other's achievements.' She adds: ‘As for the future – well, I'm no longer a reluctant chief! I love my role!'

Chief Executive of the Year Award

Winner: Maxine O'Mahony , Breckland Council

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