Changes to leadership structure agreed at Hartlepool Borough Council to make 'significant' savings

A new senior leadership structure will see the post of Chief Executive replaced with that of a Managing Director after Gill Alexander retires later this year.

Council Leader Councillor Shane Moore says the change will result in ‘significant’ savings and will put the council in the best position to deliver on its regeneration plans for the town.

Coun Moore has been working closely with Chief Executive Ms Alexander to establish a new organisational model that will ensure a smooth transition and lay strong foundations for the future.

He said: “Hartlepool Borough Council is planning significant capital investment over the next few years and I believe the new structure approved by the Finance and Policy Committee on Monday will help us deliver the next phase of our plan to transform the borough.

“The new structure will replace the Chief Executive role with that of a Managing Director and will also provide a significant recurring saving.

“Hartlepool Borough Council is currently performing well across all service areas – including those subject to external assessment – and I’m confident the new structure sets a strong foundation for our future and ensures we can continue to deliver excellent and consistent services.”

The senior leadership restructure was agreed by councillors on the Finance and Policy Committee on Monday, March 9.

A report on the issue explained budget pressures after this financial year remain uncertain while the council is also planning significant capital investment over the next few years.

Ms Alexander said in the report: “These issue will require careful management.”

She added: “I have reviewed the current structure in the light of a number of key considerations. It is important that the council has a structure which best meets the challenges it faces in both the short and medium to long terms.

“My aim in doing this is to ensure that the council has a senior leadership team clearly focused on the challenges faced, that makes best use of the expertise currently in the authority and delivers for the council excellent and consistent services.”