The new chief executive of Brighton and Hove City Council has written to senior staff setting out plans to reshape the executive leadership team.
Penny Thompson sent the letter today (Monday 17 December) six weeks after taking over from John Barradell, who left to run the City of London Corporation.
The letter marks the beginning of a consultation about the proposed changes. The need for the changes was brought about in part by the departure of three of the four strategic directors appointed by Mr Barradell.
The new chief executive, who joined from the recently disbanded General Social Care Council, spelt out her priorities. They are to
- tackle inequality
- create a more sustainable city
- engage people who live and work in Brighton and Hove
- modernise the council
She promised to run an efficient, open and customer-focused council which operated collaboratively, creatively and with respect.
Over the past six weeks the mother of three said that she had met and listened to staff across many of the council’s services and to key partners in Brighton and Hove.
Her aim, she said, was to clarify the council’s ambition and purpose, including ensuring the best deal for council tax payers.
She said: “It’s a privilege and a challenge being a local authority chief executive with such a diverse and fascinating set of responsibilities and demands.
“Brighton and Hove is a truly wonderful city with huge potential for the future and the city council has an important role to play.
“I plan to build on progress made recently and to honour my commitment to leading an organisation where accountabilities and purpose are clear and delivery is our main focus.
“I look forward to working with staff, partners and elected members of all political parties to help the city fulfil its potential.”
