A CROSS-PARTY panel is set to recommend Jackie Yates to become the new chief executive at Reading Borough Council on Tuesday, October 18.
Ms Yates is the current interim chief executive of the council, coming to the position following the resignation of previous incumbent, Peter Sloman, who retired in August.
While acting as chief executive, she was interviewed by a cross-party committee, which is now set to recommend her to take the position permanently.
Ms Yates’ previous work includes a traineeship at Oxfordshire County Council, followed by work at councils in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, and Oxford City councils.
She joined RBC as executive director of resources in 2018, and became deputy chief executive in 2021.
Councillor Jason Brock, Reading Borough Council Leader, said:
“Jackie brings with her a wealth of experience as a leader in Local Government and right across the range of local authority types.
“Her passion and commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for our residents, our partners and our communities, really stood out.
“I am additionally pleased that we have been able to recommend to Full Council an internal candidate for this key post.
He said that this means Ms Yates could “hit the ground running at a critical time where local councils again will be the first port of call for residents who may be struggling through the cost of living crisis.
“I am confident Jackie will help build on our many successes to date and help us face any challenges head on.”
Jackie Yates said: “It is a huge privilege to take on the role of Chief Executive.
“Reading is a thriving and vibrant town with many opportunities, but also some significant challenges that will only be exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis.
“I am excited and looking forward to working with Councillors, partners, our fantastically talented staff and communities to ensure all our residents have the opportunity to share in Reading’s success and live their best lives.”
With the panel’s recommendation now made to the council, the council is due to vote on the matter on Tuesday, October 18.
