Wiltshire Council welcomes its new chief executive

Ms Townsend was congratulated at a full council meeting in Trowbridge County Hall, during which councillors commented upon the “robust” selection process.

Departing CEO, Terence Herbert, was also acknowledged and thanked for his service.

Both Ms Townsend and Mr Herbert attended the meeting on Wednesday, July 24, to see the appointment go through the full council.

Leader of the council, Richard Clewer, said: “It was the hardest officer appointments panel I’ve sat on.

“We had four very good candidates; it was very difficult to come to a decision and I think that is worth acknowledging.”

READ MORE: Terence Herbert reflects on his career at Wiltshire Council

Councillors congratulated Ms Townsend and thanked Mr Herbert. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

Regarding Mr Herbert, Cllr Clewer added that one of the reasons that Wiltshire is “bucking the national trend” of struggling local authorities is “the work of Terence” and “the work of the team he has put together.”

Lib Dem leader Ian Thorne noted that Mr Herbert had achieved “enormous things” and congratulated Ms Townsend.

Cllr Peter Hutton said: “I’ve had the experience of working with Lucy for the last five or six years in children’s services and she has demonstrated passion throughout, and that has influenced officers and us councillors to strive to get to the ‘outstanding’ judgement we have got today.

“The reason I say that is I’m sure that that passion will extend right the way through all the services through Wiltshire Council.”

Ms Townsend has over 25 years of experience within local government, beginning in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, Swindon Borough Council and North Somerset Council before starting with Wiltshire Council in 2014 as head of safeguarding and assessment.

Between September 2017 to March 2020, she was director of families and children’s services before becoming corporate director for people in July 2020.

The chief executive is the most senior officer of Wiltshire Council.

Ms Townsend is expected to work with the leader and the cabinet to set a strategic direction and be the main link between council members and officers.

She said: “I am incredibly proud to be appointed as chief executive of Wiltshire Council.

“I am committed and passionate about local government and the vital role it plays and in helping to strengthen and empower our communities. 

“I can’t wait to get started, and will lead from the front taking a collaborative approach to help achieve the council’s vision, working side by side with our staff, residents, businesses and communities in a thriving and ambitious county.”