Wakefield Council to appoint new chief executive Andrew Balchin next week

Andrew Balchin is expected to be confirmed in the role following a vote by councillors on Wednesday.

Mr Balchin stepped into the job on an interim basis in September following the departure of former chief Merran McRae, who took early retirement.

He will earn £175,000 in the role, a £2,000 increase on his predecessor's salary at the time of her exit.

Mr Balchin has been put forward for the new role, but local councillors must approve him at a meeting next week.

Mr Balchin was previously the council's corporate director for health.

Speaking ahead of next Wednesday's meeting, Mr Balchin said: "During my interim period, I have had the chance to work closely with the leader (Denise Jeffery), her Cabinet and partners.

"It is very clear that the council has a clear commitment to its residents and I am delighted to be offered the opportunity to continue working with colleagues and elected members as we respond to the challenges of Covid and ensure successful economic, social and environmental recovery.

“Wakefield has big ambitions, and I’m looking forward to building on the successes to date.”

Local Democracy Reporting Service