READING BOROUGH COUNCIL has a new chief executive after councillors voted to approve the appointment last week.
Jackie Yates, who has been serving as interim chief executive, has will take on the £170,000 role.
Her duties include the overall management of council staff and advising the administration and councillors on how it can best fulfil its functions.
Ms Yates was unanimously confirmed as the new chief executive at a full council meeting on Wednesday, October 18.
She succeeds Peter Sloman, who left in August to pursue a career as a public sector mentor in a non-executive role.
Councillor Jason Brock (Labour, Southcote), the leader of the council, said: “Peter Sloman is, of course, a tough act to follow.
“[Jackie] has vast experience, is extremely talented, has a track record of delivery, a very good sense of humour and one of those laughs that you can’t fail to hear around the building which is always an endearing characteristic if you ask me.
“I’m sure that Jackie will be a fantastic chief executive for this council as we move forward, and I greatly look forward to working with her in her new role.”
The decision to select her was made by a cross party panel of councillors.
Cllr Clarence Mitchell, leader of the Conservative group and Emmer Green representative, said: “I think she is an excellent and will be a credit to the council and the town.”
Ms Yates said the role was a huge privilege.
“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,” she explained.
“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.”
The new senior official joined Reading Borough Council in 2018 as executive director of resources and became deputy chief executive in 2021, having previously served on Oxford City Council, Milton Keynes Council, and the county councils of Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
She will be the fifth female chief executive to serve the council, following in the footsteps of Sylvie Pierce (1992-1995), Di Bligh (1995-1997), Joye Markham (1997-2002), and Trish Haines (2002-2008).
