Ealing's New Chief Executive Announced

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Martin Smith gets top job after being forced out of Tower Hamlets

The former Chief Executive of Tower Hamlets is to become Ealing's top man, with salary to match.

Martin Smith,49, has been appointed to take over from Darra Singh who's taking the position of Chief Executive of JobCentre Plus and second Permanent Secretary at the Department for Work and Pensions.

A council spokesperson said: “The salary banding for the chief executive’s post is £167,532 to £178, 341. The post is also subject to performance-related pay and the criteria for this includes a measure of residents’ satisfaction”.

According to reports earlier this year, Mr Smith walked away from his previous job with a £300,000+ pay-off after a personality clash with Tower Hamlets council leader, Lutfur Rahman.

Mr Smith lives with his partner Anne-Marie and lists his interests as jazz, supporting West Ham United football club, and owning a 1974 Triumph Stag classic sports car.

Councillor Jason Stacey, Leader of Ealing Council, said:

“Martin has an excellent record of achievement in local government. I'm delighted we've attracted him to Ealing and am confident that his experience and drive will prove invaluable in the Council achieving even higher resident satisfaction.”

Martin Smith said: "There's no bigger challenge than improving a Council that is already rated one of the best in the country. But having already met some of Ealing’s councillors and officers I am confident that we can rise to that challenge and am looking forward to making Ealing an even better Borough.”

Mr Smith has no starting date as yet.

 

October 21st, 2009