03/02/04 - Appointment of Chief Executive and Director of Social Services

Rex Toft, Leader of Cumbria County Council, made the following announcement at today’s meeting of Cabinet:

“I am pleased to advise Cabinet that we have now filled the vacant posts of Chief Executive Officer, and the Director of Social Services.

“The Chief Executive post has been offered to, and accepted by John Harwood who was formally Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council, and the Learning and Skills Council for England.  His appointment is from the 1stMarch until 30thSeptember 2004, and after that it is negotiable.  I should add, however, that John has already spent some time, and will spend further time, becoming more acquainted with Cumbria before he actually takes up his appointment.

“I am also delighted that we have been able to offer the post of Director of Social Services to Stephen Wilds who is currently Director of Social Care and Health in Northamptonshire, and who has worked for a number of Authorities including Oxfordshire, Ealing, Doncaster and Humberside. He has significant experience in helping to turn round under performing Social Services Departments.

“I have no doubt that both gentlemen will make a significant contribution to this Authority, and I look forward to working with them.”