NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOR MALDON DC

Maldon DC councillors have unanimously approved the appointment of Delwyn Burbidge to the post of chief executive.

Mr Burbidge, 49, is currently chief executive of Melton BC.

Bob Boyce, leader of Maldon DC said: 'Employing the right person for this important role is a crucial decision for the district, so I am delighted to announce the appointment of Delwyn Burbidge as our new chief executive.

'Maldon District Council is proud of its record of attracting high calibre staff and being an employer of choice. We strive to deliver high quality services to the people of the district.'

Mr Burbidge said: 'I am delighted to be given this opportunity by Maldon District Council. My first task will be to get a real feel for the council, its members, its staff and the community it serves.

'Local government faces a number of challenges and I am looking forward to working with members, staff and partners to meet these challenges and build on the excellent reputation Maldon District Council has for the delivery of services to its residents'.

Mr Burbidge succeeds Steve Packham who left to take up the chief executive's post at Chelmsford BC.

Mr Burbidge will officially take up the post of chief executive on 1 November 2004.

Melton BC leader Malise Graham expressed his gratitude to Mr Burbidge for the all he has done for the council since his arrival in May 2001.

'He took over at a time when there was a vote of 'no confidence' in the then leader, members were leaving the ruling group and staff structuring commenced a few years earlier had not been fully implemented.

'Morale in several departments was at a low ebb and Delwyn set about giving the council focus, through a reorganisation of the authority's management structure, a new constitution and later a greater emphasis on our customers - the council tenant, council tax payers and local businesses in the borough.

'His greatest legacy to us is that, after a period of instability, confidence has returned to the council and we're back on course working with, and serving the community.'

Mr Burbidge said: 'I'm leaving with mixed feelings, having enjoyed the challenge that faced me when I arrived. I'm thankful for all the support I've received, from staff and councillors.

'The leader and I agree that the right structure is now in place; we've emerged from period of great change and external inspection and challenge, and managed to improve several service areas as we've progressed. We're sure there will now be a period of stability for the organisation.'