Former senior Number 10 civil servant named as likely Leeds council CEO

A former senior civil servant has been named as the likely permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council.

Ed Whiting has been selected aas the preferred candidate to replace Tom Riordan, and his appointment is now expected to be rubber stamped by a meeting of the full council next month.

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Mr Whiting, who was appointed an OBE for public service and services to No10 Downing Street in 2016, is currently director of cities and local growth in the Department for Business and Trade and Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, based in Leeds.

In that role, he was “leading place-based economic growth partnerships with UK mayors and other leaders.”

Ed Whiting is set to be appointed as the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City CouncilEd Whiting is set to be appointed as the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council
Ed Whiting is set to be appointed as the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council

He grew up in the city and now lives in West Yorkshire with his partner, David, and they are foster carers to a young baby.

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He said he was “over the moon" at the announcement, and was looking forward to addressing the challenges facing a “brilliant city”.

Speaking after yesterday’s announcement, he said: “I love Leeds and am excited to be part of the next chapter of our city’s story.

"Through the recruitment process I’ve enjoyed getting to know Team Leeds better, and have been impressed with the dedication across our council team and partners, and the strong shared commitment to do their best for all Leeds residents.”

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His presumed appointment was also welcome by the leader of the council James Lewis, who represents the Kippax and Methley ward for Labour.

He said: “Throughout the extensive recruitment and selection process, Ed’s understanding of Leeds, our collective city ambitions, our values, our challenges and ideas for the future made him the best candidate for the role.

"I am looking forward to working with Ed as we move forward with our positive vision for the future, one which recognises the amazing strengths and opportunities we have and focuses on tackling poverty and inequality, whilst delivering high-quality public services for everyone who lives and works in our city.”

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