New Town Hall chief appointed

WARRINGTON Borough Council has appointed Katherine Fairclough as the authority’s new assistant chief executive.
Currently leading Wigan Council’s multi-million £ programme to transform its leisure and public service, she has more than 15 years local government experience at senior level, where she specialises in policy and improvement and business transformation.
She previously managed a review of support services at Wigan, helping guide the council to a four star rating from the Audit Commission.
Warrington has not had an assistant chief executive for some five years.
Ms Fairclough (pictured) said: “Leaving Wigan will be a wrench, but I’m very excited about coming to Warrington, joining a successful team and working with them for the benefit of the town and local residents.”
In her new role, she will be providing strategic leadership and advice across a range of corporate services and initiatives.
Chief executive Diana Terris said: “I am confident that we have attracted exactly the right person to take the lead in delivering the council’s vision, values and ambitions through effective policy development. She will help the council ensure that Warrington is recognised as one of the best places to live and work in the UK, where everyone enjoys an outstanding quality of life.”
Leader of the council Ian Marks said: “Katherine has all the necessary skills, experience and drive to develop and build on the council’s success in making sure we are responsive to the diverse needs of everyone who lives and works in Warrington.
“She is passionate about putting local people at the heart of service planning and engaging key partners and stakeholders to make sure we deliver outstanding public services for the people of Warrington.”
Ms Fairclough will take up her new post with the council in October.