Paul has worked in local government for over 30 years
Herefordshire Council has welcomed Paul Walker who joins the council as Chief Executive today (Tuesday 4 May 2021).
Paul has a wealth of experience working in local authorities including experience as an Assistant Director, Director and 5 years as a very effective Chief Executive. He joins the council at an important time following a recent high court judgement which led to an urgent and thorough external review of Herefordshire Children’s Social Care Services.
Paul’s most recent role was Corporate Director at Harrow Council, where he led the development of the Harrow Strategic Development Partnership. This is Harrow’s largest investment and development project which will see the development of 1500 new homes, a new school and open space, and bring apprenticeships, training and investment in the local economy to the borough. Paul also led Harrow’s Climate Emergency strategy and the Green Recovery programme of the West London Economic Recovery Plan and was instrumental in the development of Harrow’s Homeslessness Reduction Partnership
Prior to his time at Harrow, Paul held the positions of Executive Consultant at Rossendale Council, Chief Executive at Copeland Borough Council, and Executive Director at Blackpool Council.
(l-r) Paul Walker and Councillor David Hitchiner
Paul Walker said:
“I am proud to have been appointed as Herefordshire Council’s Chief Executive and I am really looking forward to working with our staff, elected members and partners. This is a critical time for the council, and for the last few months I have been working closely with Councillor Hitchiner, elected members and senior management to ensure we make real and sustainable changes to our Children’s Social Care services.”
Councillor David Hitchiner, Leader of Herefordshire Council, said:
“Paul is joining Herefordshire Council as we reach a watershed moment following the recent high court judgment. He brings a wide range of experience gained from over 30 years of public service including time as a Chief Executive. I am looking forward to the impact that Paul will have on the county and the community through delivery of the County Plan. These are challenging times and I am confident that Paul will deliver. I would also like to add my thanks to Claire Ward and Andrew Lovegrove who led the council as Acting Deputy Chief Executives following Alistair Neill’s retirement.”
