Bath & North East Somerset Council has confirmed that it has appointed Ashley Ayre to succeed Jo Farrar as Chief Executive of the Council.
Ashley Ayre joined Bath & North East Somerset Council in July 2006 following a successful career in Surrey, Kent and London Councils.
He has earned considerable leadership experience and respect from colleagues and the community for successfully delivering a wide portfolio of high profile services in his current role as Strategic Director for People and Communities.
Jo Farrar, the Council’s Chief Executive since 2012, has been appointed to one of the top jobs in Westminster; Director General for Local Government and Public Services in the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).
Councillor Tim Warren, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council said: “We are delighted with the appointment which will enable a smooth transition to assist the Council in delivering its priorities to improve the quality of service whilst meeting the tough financial challenges ahead.
“I have every confidence that Ashley will provide the high standard of leadership expected by our communities and staff.
“I would also like to thank Jo for all her hard work. Despite the financial challenges facing the Council, she leaves the authority in a better place than many other councils around the country.”
Ashley Ayre said: “It’s a great honour to be selected to be the next Chief Executive and I recognise that Jo Farrar will be a hard act to follow. The Council is in very good shape, considering the financial challenges facing all local authorities – but there is more to do.
“I am looking forward to working with the Cabinet, Councillors, staff, partners and the communities across the breadth of Bath and North East Somerset.
“Those people that I have worked with or know me, appreciate that I am a passionate advocate of delivering high quality front line services that are important to local people.”
Ashley Ayre is expected will take over the role when Jo Farrar departs at the end of August.