New council chief exec’s four jobs rolled into one

Tracey Kerly has been confirmed as the new interim chief executive of Ashford Borough Council (ABC).

ABC’s former housing director will also take on the roles of head of paid service, returning officer and electoral registration officer.

She replaces former chief executive, John Bunnett, who anounced his intention to leave ABC last November to take up a private sector job with the Brett Group.

Mr Bunnett, who had been at the helm of ABC for six years, was paid £117,000 a year.

It is unknown how much Mrs Kerly, whose appointment was ratified at last Thursday’s full council meeting, will be paid.

Mrs Kerly, who had most recently been the council’s operations director, has been appointed initially for two years.

The council says her appointment is temporary to allow time to make any management structure changes and as a money-saver.

The last chief executive recruitment cost the council £40,000 for advertising, consultants, head-hunting, long listing, shortlisting and selection exercises.

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, ABC leader, said: “The recommendation to appoint Tracey Kerly as

Tracey Kerly, Ashford Borough Council’s new interim chief chief executive helps to ensure we maintain a steady course to achieving our objectives whilst also recognising the external environment is changing.

“This will provide the organisation with the ability to respond appropriately as the future becomes clearer.”

Mrs Kerly said: “I’m delighted to take up this position. The town centre developments coming forward have amazing potential and will provide a combination of new jobs, homes and leisure facilities – exactly what the town needs.”

Mrs Kerly, who is married with two adult children, has previously been ABC’s head of customers, homes and property. She has worked in housing since 1981, starting her career as a housing management trainee in Bromley.

She joined ABC in 1988, and has been closely involved in the delivery of new homes through PFI, overseeing the Stanhope regeneration project, working with housing association partners and developing rural housing schemes.

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