Elaine Jackson has been formally appointed as interim chief executive, following a unanimous recommendation by the council’s cross-party Appointments and Disciplinary Committee.
Ms Jackson, who has been acting in the role since late October, has been appointed for 12 months and will focus on leading Croydon’s transformation programme to improve services and deliver better value for residents.
Elaine Jackson said: “I am delighted to have been formally appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer at Croydon. We have a busy time ahead as we focus on projects to radically change and modernise our Council, to make it more efficient and financially sustainable for the future. I am committed to leading on this change and putting residents at the heart of everything we do.”
Jason Perry, executive mayor of Croydon, welcomed her appointment and emphasised the importance of steady leadership.
Mr Perry said: “Croydon is on a journey of improvement, and I am delighted that Elaine Jackson has been formally appointed as Interim Chief Executive – bringing the stability and continuity needed to drive our transformation.”
The executive brings extensive experience from both the private and public sectors, most recently serving as Assistant Chief Executive at Croydon.
In addition to Ms Jackson’s appointment, Croydon has named Conrad Hall as its new Section 151 Officer on a 12-month secondment from the London Borough of Newham.
Mr Hall, who has been a Section 151 Officer since 2013, will succeed Jane West, the current Corporate Director of Resources, who is set to leave Croydon next year.
He said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to join Croydon and very grateful to Newham for facilitating the secondment.
“I moved to London 30 years ago and have lived in south London ever since and whilst I don’t live in Croydon I’m very nearby.
“I was also part of the external audit team for Croydon in the 1990s so it’s great to be returning.
“I can’t wait to get started.”
Mayor Perry thanked Ms West for her service to Croydon.
He said: “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Jane West for everything she has done for Croydon – she has been a real asset to our Council.
“We have been fortunate to have her with us on our journey, and she will be very much missed by us all.”
