Wait for Tameside Council chief executive goes on following unsuccessful interviews

By George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporting Service

TAMESIDE Council is waiting for a new boss after none of five candidates were selected for the top job.

A permanent successor as chief executive to Sandra Stewart has been ongoing since her resignation in October.

Now after a round of interviews was unsuccessful, Harry Catherall MBE will continue as interim until one is found.

Tameside Council Leader Councillor Eleanor Wills and Interim Chief Executive Harry Catherall

An email circulated among councillors said: “Following a robust and carefully considered process which has involved many stakeholders including our senior leadership team, elected members, staff, young people and local and regional partners, the appointments panel have unfortunately decided they are not able to recommend any of the shortlisted candidates for appointment.

“While disappointing, this does show that we are not willing to compromise for Tameside.

“Ensuring the right leadership for any role is about more than simply filling a position – it’s about upholding the highest standards for our employees and residents alike.

“Every appointment must reflect a commitment to excellence and so we will re-group and discuss next steps, keeping you updated in due course.”

Sandra Stewart resigned following pressures from overseeing a string of failings in the authority’s children’s services.

Before she left, she disputed claims of a ‘toxic’ and ‘bullying’ culture in the department, as was claimed by commissioner Andy Couldrick.

And a Tameside Council spokesperson said work will continue alongside Penna – the organisation that handles such positions – to find a permanent successor in the coming months.

They said: “Harry Catherall will continue in his position as Interim chief executive, while the recruitment process remains live, driving service improvement and supporting stability.

“Working with Penna, the council will seek to bring forward new candidates every two months until a successful appointment for a permanent chief executive is made.”