Sedgemoor District Council has approved that Allison Griffin should be appointed as its Interim Chief Executive, replacing outgoing Chief Executive Kerry Rickards (pictured).
Allison has worked for the authority since 1991, holding the posts of Head of Finance and more recently, Corporate Director.
After 17 years, the outgoing Chief Executive, Kerry Rickards announced his retirement last month.
Paying tribute to Kerry at a Full Council meeting on Thursday (July 26th), the Leader of Council, Cllr Duncan McGinty said: “Sedgemoor has blossomed under Kerry’s leadership and Sedgemoor has firmly been put on the map, not only regionally, nationally and internationally.”
“He was never fazed at any disaster that came Sedgemoor’s way – and there have been many over the past 17 years.”
“He has overseen the downsizing of the organisation whilst maintaining services to Sedgemoor residents.”
“He is the longest service Chief Executive amongst Somerset local authorities and we are sad to see him go, but wish him a long and happy retirement.”
Labour Leader Cllr Mick Lerry added: “We need to recognise what people put into public service and Kerry has contributed hugely to local government over the past 38 years.”
And Cllr Lorna Corke, UKIP Leader, added: “Kerry made me feel very welcome as a new councillor. I always felt that Sedgemoor had a quiet presence that is very reassuring; and this is down to Kerry and the staff.”
Pictured: Kerry Rickards, who is outgoing Chief Executive (photo Reg Winslow)
