TAMESIDE Council has a new permanent chief executive after Emma Alexander landed the role.
The authority had been looking for a non-political head since the resignation of Sandra Stewart in October.
Harry Catherall MBE was drafted in from neighbouring Oldham in the interim and a round of interviews was unsuccessful.
But after nine months, one has now been found with the appointment of Ms Alexander from Derbyshire County Council, where she is managing director – an equivalent position.
Her appointment should be ratified at the meeting of full council on Tuesday, July 15 and she should begin at about the start of November.
But issues are already filling her in tray. Not least, the state of Tameside’s ‘inadequate’ children’s services department.
An inspection of its services for children with special educational need or disabilities (SEND) painted a grim picture.
There is also the current suspension of several Labour councillors over their involvement in the Trigger Me Timbers WhatsApp group.
In an email to councillors, council leader Cllr Eleanor Wills said: “Emma has a deep understanding of local government and brings with her a wealth of experience of working in large scale, complex organisations with a clear passion for improving outcomes for local people.
“This has included supporting the achievement of a ‘good’ rating for children’s services and adult social care.
“We have not been willing to compromise for Tameside, ensuring we recommend the right person for the role, who will uphold the highest standards for our employees and residents alike.
“Having a permanent chief executive in place will bring long-term stability of leadership as we continue to move forward with our priorities and ambitions, building a confident and resilient future together.”
Ms Alexander was executive director of commercial services at Oldham Council from 2009-2016.
And she is ready to help Tameside get better, saying: “This is a wonderful opportunity to join Tameside at such a pivotal time in the council’s improvement journey.
“I know Tameside has a talented and dedicated workforce and collective drive to do the best for residents and businesses and I’m excited for the opportunity to be part of this and helping the borough to further grow and thrive.
“It’s also great to be returning the Greater Manchester family where I know there is a shared commitment to supporting economic growth and supporting everyone to live a good life.”
Current interim chief executive Mr Catherall added: “Having led the ‘one council’ culture change programme at Derbyshire, I know Emma is committed to carrying forward the great strides we have made in growing our own positive culture and being part of one team Tameside, all working to the same values.
“I, of course, will continue in post as interim chief executive and I’m committed to a smooth and seamless transition.
“If approval goes ahead at full council, we will see this appointment mark the end of a very successful year for Tameside and long may it continue.”