New man at helm of Thurrock Council

AFTER a sometimes heated debate at Thurrock Council's full meeting this evening the authority has appointed a new interim chief executive.

Mike Rowan was the council’s Head of Legal Services and Monitoring Officer and will act as chief executive until a full time appointment is made.

During a lengthy debate during which Labour members of the council challenged the Conservative group's plans and called for a senior, experienced person to be recruited through outside sources.

The council announced earlier in November that former chief executive, Angie Ridgwell, had left the post.

In accepting the post, Mr Rowan said he felt “privileged and honoured” when he was approached.

He added: “During the next few weeks I intend to focus on the immediate risks and issues. I will establish some tough internal controls and I will ensure the council demonstrates accountability for all its actions in all areas.”

He added: “My first priority is to restore trust and credibility. This will be achieved through honesty and openness, underpinned by clear, straightforward governance and policy.

“Change is a time of hope and a cause for optimism. I am confident that together we will improve the services of this council; we will improve the lives of people in this borough; and we will improve the lives of the officers and members of this council.

“I accept this interim role without reservation, and with only one obligation, to devote my time and energy to ensure the reputation of Thurrock Council is compassionate, transparent, honest and open.”

Councillor Terry Hipsey, Leader of Thurrock Council, said after the meeting: “Since Mike’s arrival at Thurrock Council he has carried out exemplary work and he will bring a balance to our corporate management team.

“Mike’s drive and ambition to do well for this authority will, I am sure, help take Thurrock forward.”

Mr Rowan joined Thurrock Council in August this year. Aged 45, he has spent much of his time working in the West Country, latterly as head of Legal Services at Stroud and Kennett district councils and he had a senior legal role at North Somerset Council where he played a strategic role in helping the formation of a new unitary authority.

Born in Southwark, South London, he is married with three children. He went to the University of East London (Barking) and was called to the bar in 1991, specialising at the bar in Local Government law before working in local authorities since 1995.