New chief executive for district councils

Yvonne Rees will take over the job from Sue Smith in the summer.

Mrs Rees will be leaving her role as chief executive of Mole Valley District Council and strategic director for customers and communities at Surrey County Council, a joint post she has held since September 2012.

Her commercial and local government career spans 27 years.

Mrs Rees said: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity for me and one that poses plenty of new challenges which I hope to rise to, bringing a fresh perspective and wealth of new ideas.”

SNC leader Ian McCord said: “Yvonne exhibits great scope in terms of her experience in local government, in particular with working across two councils, as well as her commercial background.

“We were looking for a candidate that could demonstrate a forward thinking attitude to how councils should operate. I firmly believe that Yvonne can satisfy the needs and challenges of both councils whilst delivering on our plans and taking us to the next level.”

CDc leader Barry Wood said: “I am delighted Yvonne has been appointed and trust she will be a great asset for both councils.

“With her background and expertise, I am certain she can help us to continue with our successes.”

During her time at Surrey and Mole Valley Mrs Rees has helped both councils manage financial challenges and join up the work of the two authorities.

Mole Valley District Council leader Vivienne Michael said: “I have greatly enjoyed working with Yvonne and we have achieved a great deal together for the residents of Mole Valley.

She will be greatly missed, not just by me but by all her colleagues, our partners and other elected members but we wish her all the best in her new role and I am confident she will be successful.”

Surrey County Council leader David Hodge said: “We will be sorry to see Yvonne leave Surrey. She has served the council and our residents tremendously well over the years and helped us to always provide high quality services to local people.”