Thinking of leaving your local government role? This guide helps officers evaluate when it’s time to move on, how to take emotion out of the decision, and how to clarify career motivations. Explore values alignment, impact, growth, and wellbeing through a decision matrix. Whether you stay or go, make the choice with clarity and purpose. The sector needs energised leaders, not just loyal ones.

Stepping into the role of DPH means leading with vision, navigating political complexity, and driving change across systems. This guide offers aspiring leaders a clear roadmap: the essential skills to develop, what to focus on in your first 100 days, and the common pitfalls to avoid. If you're ready to lead with courage, compassion, and clarity, this role might just be your calling.