New interim chief executive appointed at Havant and East Hampshire councils

Gill Kneller, previously an executive director for both councils, has stepped into the role for six months from January after her appointment was approved by both councils.

She replaces Sandy Hopkins, who was chief executive at Havant Borough Council since 2007 and of both organisations since 2009.

Ms Kneller said: '˜I am delighted to be taking on this new and challenging role and thank the councillors for demonstrating their faith in me.

'˜These are exciting times for local government, with plenty of challenges but also plenty of opportunities.

'˜Across both councils we have fantastic colleagues and progressive councillors who are committed to providing quality services to their residents.

Cllr Michael Wilson, leader of Havant Borough Council, said: '˜Gill is the perfect appointment and the obvious successor to Sandy, as they worked so closely together over the last few years.

'˜She already has an in-depth knowledge of the organisation and the strategic directions of both councils and so she can hit the ground running.

'˜I am really looking forward to working with her.'

The councils also share a management team and many services.