253-08 Chief Executive to leave council

Steve Robinson, the Chief Executive of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, is become the first Chief Executive of the new Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Robinson, 52, takes up his new post on 1 October.

Robinson said: "I'm very sad to leave Stoke-on-Trent but I believe I leave it extremely well placed for the future as the most improved council in the country.

"I have been offered a unique opportunity to lead a brand new council. This is a wonderful challenge for me personally but I shall miss my many friends and colleagues here in Stoke-on-Trent"

Stoke-on-Trent's Elected Mayor Mark Meredith paid tribute to Mr Robinson. He said: "Steve Robinson has played a crucial role in turning this council into a three star authority. I have worked closely with him on pushing forward the agenda for change and we have achieved a great deal.

"I would like to pay tribute to Steve's focus, determination and leadership. He has earned the admiration of everyone he has dealt with, from staff to government ministers.

He has been Chief Executive since October 2006. He was previously the city council's Director of Community Services. He also worked as the Chief Executive of Bloxwich Housing Trust in the West Midlands.

Elected Mayor Meredith added: "Now we have to focus on his replacement as soon as possible. It is important we do not falter on our journey to excellence.

"I would like to reassure people that we have the political and management structures in place to see us through this change with the minimum of disruption. I am confident we will be able to work even harder to further improve council services".