Leeds City Council names new chief executive

A former senior civil servant is set to be appointed as the new chief executive of Leeds City Council.

Ed Whiting, who has held roles at HM Treasury and 10 Downing Street, is expected to take on the role next year.

Pending formal approval, he will take over from interim chief executive Mariana Pexton who was appointed earlier this year following Tom Riordan's departure.

Mr Whiting, who grew up in Leeds, said he was "looking forward" to joining the council.

He is currently the Director of Cities and Local Growth in the Department for Business and Trade and Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Mr Whiting, who was awarded an OBE in 2016 for services to public service and No. 10 Downing Street, lives in West Yorkshire with his partner, David. They are foster carers to a young baby.

Council leader James Lewis said: “Throughout the extensive recruitment and selection process, Ed’s understanding of Leeds, our collective city ambitions, our values, our challenges and ideas for the future made him the best candidate for the role."

Mr Whiting said: "I love Leeds and am excited to be part of the next chapter of our city’s story.

“I’m looking forward to joining the team as we work together on both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our brilliant city.”

Mr Riordan left the council earlier this year to take up a post as a permanent secretary in the Department of Health and Social Care.

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