Islington LBC's chief executive, Linzi Roberts-Egan, is expected to join Waltham Forest.
Subject to confirmation by full council, she will replace Martin Esom, who is retiring after 13 years at the helm.
Ms Roberts-Egan is currently chief executive of Islington LBC, having previously worked at Waltham Forest as deputy chief executive from 2013 to 2019.
Council leader Grace Williams described her as an ‘inspirational leader'.
She added: ‘Linzi served Waltham Forest residents for many years, before becoming chief executive officer at Islington.
‘She brings with her a very impressive track record with what she has achieved in Islington and a strong commitment to our borough.'
Ms Roberts-Egan said: ‘I'm absolutely thrilled to be chosen as chief executive and to be re-joining the team at Waltham Forest.
‘It's a great privilege to have the chance to lead such a dedicated staffing team, who I know are rightly ambitious for Waltham Forest, and there are great opportunities ahead.
‘It is, of course, also a time of economic uncertainty for many at the moment, with challenges around poverty, inequality and climate change, and I'm keen to get involved immediately to help tackle these issues, working closely with elected members, colleagues, partners and communities.'
A start date has yet to be confirmed.
