ESSEX County Council has begun the hunt for its new chief executive.

The authority has placed adverts online as it searches for a replacement for Joanna Killian, who steps down this month after nine years in the role.

Ms Killian’s £215,000 basic annual salary made her one of the best paid public officials in the country, but the council states her replacement’s wage is negotiable.

Council leader David Finch said: “We think this is the biggest and the best job in local government.

“We need the best possible person to lead our committed, dedicated staff through challenging but exciting times as we continue work to transform the council, make every penny count and, of course, ensure residents receive the best possible public services.

“We need someone with a passion for public services, a passion for Essex and a passion for improving people’s lives.

“We are prepared to be patient in securing the right person, because this county deserves the very best leadership.”

The deadline for applications is June 15.

The council then aims to hold initial interviews in September, before a final panel interview for leading candidates in early October.

Ms Killian is moving to the private sector, joining KPMG as a partner.

Her role will be filled by existing Essex County Council executives on a temporary basis.

Depending on how long it takes to make an appointment, up to four people will fill the role of “head of paid service” on a rotating basis.

The executives, who are paid £175,000 per year, will not receive any extra pay for filling the temporary role.