Council set to approve new chief executive
The appointment of a new Bristol City Council chief executive is set to be approved next month.
A selection committee, made up of cross-party councillors supported by senior officers, have recommended Nick Hibberd for the role.
His appointment will now be subject to full council approval when councillors meet on October 8.
Cllr Tony Dyer, leader of Bristol City Council and chair of the selection committee, said: “The role of chief executive is to lead the organisation to achieve our political priorities and the best outcomes for residents, improve our services and make them fit for the future.
“The role also requires someone who can be an ambassador for the city across the wider region and nationally, working in collaboration with partners to meet the future needs of the city. After a thorough recruitment process, I’m delighted we have been able to recommend Nick as our next permanent chief executive. In Nick I believe we have someone who embodies the council’s values and brings with him many years of local government experience and expertise. I look forward to introducing Nick to full council in October.”
Should Hibberd’s appointment be approved by full council, he will leave his current role on Croydon Council’s corporate management team and brings with him over 25 years experience of working at a senior level in local government.
He said: “I’m delighted to be recommended to such a fantastic role. Bristol is an incredible city, I recognise its potential as one of the UK’s most vibrant, dynamic, and innovative cities, and I am really looking forward to meeting you all.
“I recognise Bristol, like many councils, faces significant financial challenges, and I know a lot of work is already going into transforming services. I bring with me extensive experience in designing and delivering savings and transformational programmes to address challenging financial circumstances, whilst at the same time ensuring that basic services are delivered well. I want us to be a council focused upon delivering for and listening to our residents and businesses, and meeting the needs of the city’s communities consistently and sustainably.
“Equally as important to me is championing an inclusive, high performing, healthy and motivated workforce. I look forward to having the chance to work alongside all of you to ensure we are delivering an ambitious future for both the council and the city. I’m looking forward to working with the political leadership and council staff in enabling Bristol to become a city of hope and aspiration where everyone can share in its success.”
It is anticipated that he will start his new role on January 6.
