Telford and Wrekin Council’s first Managing Director confirmed
Telford & Wrekin Council has confirmed the appointment of Richard Partington as its first Managing Director following a vote last night by councillors.
A meeting of Full Council confirmed Richard’s appointment after a successful six months in an interim post, during which he has – among other things – carried out begun a review of the council’s Senior Management structures.
This review included recommendations for the creation of a Managing Director role as part of a further reduction in senior management structures and reduced pay for directors, which will result in significant cost savings.
These recommendations were approved by the last Full Council meeting in November and Richard was appointed Managing Director Designate following a selection process in December.
Council leader Kuldip Sahota said: “It was the unanimous decision that Richard should be put forward to council as the Personnel Board’s recommendation for the post of Managing Director.
“I am delighted that this has now been confirmed by Full Council. I and my cabinet colleagues have very much enjoyed working with Richard so far and would like to congratulate him on his appointment being confirmed.”
Richard started his career in local government as an administrative assistant at North Shropshire District Council.
He joined Telford & Wrekin Council in 1991 and previous roles include Best Value Manager and Head of Policy, Performance and Partnerships. He was also the Project Manager for the creation of Telford & Wrekin Council as a unitary authority between 1996 and 1998.
He has effectively instigated, led and delivered major change within the organisation and across the Local Strategic Partnership.
Richard was born in Wrexham and is a huge fan of Wrexham Football Club. He is a published author, having written a Fever Pitch-style book called The Giant Killers about the club he loves.
He is married with two teenage sons. The family also have a dog called Tango.
