Search Is On For Chief Executive

ROCHDALE Borough Council has started the search for a new chief executive - following the departure of Jim Taylor who has left to head up Salford Council.

The post will be advertised at the existing salary between £126,250 and £131,300. The post will be advertised in the summer and, following a rigorous selection process, an appointment will be made by the autumn

New council leader Richard Farnell said: “I am confident we can attract an exceptional field of candidates and appoint an outstanding new chief executive on the existing salary.

“With all that is going on in Rochdale, we need an brilliant chief who can work with the new council leadership to dramatically improve the borough’s fortunes. Yes, like many councils, we have lots of challenges but Rochdale has great opportunities too. We have good schools which are improving all the time; our 6th form college is among the very best in the country and we have the fastest-growing and most successful Business Park in the north. On top of that, we are surrounded by the most beautiful countryside. Rochdale is a great place to work and live.

“It’s a big job. We need a dynamic individual who can bring investment and new and better paid jobs to the town. The only way we can improve the prosperity for residents is having exceptional schools providing a first class education, and equipping our people with the skills needed in today’s ever-changing jobs market. That is the best way to attract new and successful firms to invest in Rochdale. The new chief executive will be instrumental in working with me to achieve these important goals.

“I also want to make Rochdale Borough Council the most customer-friendly council in the country. That means huge changes in the way the council works to put our residents first and at the centre of everything we do. The new chief executive will be responsible for bringing about a huge cultural change in how staff work and how services are delivered. It’s a big challenge.

“Top salaries are coming down all over local government following huge budget cuts. The salary here is competitive and I am sure we will attract some really exceptional candidates. As Leader, I have to be mindful that the pay is seen as realistic and reasonable by the people picking up the bill – the taxpayers of Rochdale.

“Since Jim Taylor announced his departure there has already been a lot of interest from some really good people.

“Top officer pay is always a hot potato. The council has already reduced the number of senior executives in Rochdale by 14, saving the taxpayer £1.5m. We are also looking to make further cuts. Our priority is to always put frontline services first.”