NOTTINGHAM CITY Council has its first black leader in Mel Barrett, who has taken over as Chief Executive in the East Midlands city, following a five-year tenure at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.
Barrett, who previously worked at senior levels in housing and regeneration in London (Hammersmith and Fulham Borough) and Oxford City Council, told the media: “I’m really pleased to be taking up such an important role at one of the country’s Core Cities. Nottingham is an ambitious, forward-thinking, diverse and inclusive city with a proud history.
He is also a former director at the London Development Agency. He added: “There are several things I particularly care about. I am passionate about improving life chances, facilitating social progress and delivering tangible change on the ground.
“The last few months, with Council services at the forefront of the response to Covid-19, have demonstrated how important our workforce is in protecting and supporting our most vulnerable.
“Covid-19 has also had a major impact on the local economy, as well the council’s finances, so planning for the future and delivering sustainable growth is vital to help make Nottingham a world-class city for everyone.”
Councillor David Mellen, Council leader, said “I am delighted to welcome Mel to Nottingham and the City Council.
Difficult time
“The experience and expertise he brings will help us ensure we can continue to provide essential services to the people of Nottingham during what is an extremely difficult time for the city and the country as a whole with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.”
Another Council leader, Cllr Ken Rhatigan of Basingstoke and Deane Borough, reflected on Mel’s contribution: “Mel has been a tremendous support since I became Leader in May 2019.
“He will be a hard act to follow at our high performing council into the post-Covid-19 world, as we all work together to do our best to ensure the borough continues to thrive in the future.”
Barrett’s successor looks set to be Russell O’Keefe, pending approval at a Council meeting, subject to which, he will join the Council early in the new year.
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