Northants names new chief executive

It follows the resignation of Andrew Quincey last week, who is going to work for a public construction company in Sydney, Australia.

Grant is a former chief executive at Trafford Council. Northamptonshire’s council leader Matthew Golby said she was a “distinguished chief executive”.

“I am delighted to be able to announce that we have selected a preferred candidate who I have no doubt has the experience, skills, leadership and expertise which we require here in Northamptonshire,” Golby said.

“We now look forward to moving through the next two years and the transition to unitary governance with such a distinguished chief executive in role.”

The council’s chief financial officer Mark McLaughlin also resigned last week. 

The Local Government Association supported the recruitment process, which was led by government-appointed commissioners.

Lead commissioner Tony McArdle said: “I am very pleased to commend to council, for its endorsement, the appointment of Theresa Grant.

“Theresa has shown throughout her career that she is an exceptional chief executive and I have confidence is the right person to lead the organisation as improvements are put in place to deliver better financial management, governance and ultimately service outcomes for the people of Northamptonshire.”

Quincey and McLaughlin had both been drafted in to stabilise the council's finances after the local authority issued the first ‘section 114’ notice in 20 years.

In a letter to council members, Golby said that McLaughlin decided to step down as the government commissioners are now in place and added “the council is moving into its next phase and therefore it is only right that he steps aside at this time”.

Quincey replaced Damon Lawrenson in April as interim chief after the latter resigned.

Grant’s appointment is expected to be ratified at a full council meeting next Thursday.

Image credit: Hazel Nicholson, Flickr Images