The new chief executive of the Isle of Wight Council has admitted it was 'a real privilege' to be offered the position this week.
Councillors voted in favour of the recommendation of the cross-party appointment and employment committee to appoint Wendy Perera at a meeting of the Full Council.
Wendy, whose new role includes head of paid service, has worked for the council for much of her career, including key roles in the planning department.
She was formerly assistant chief executive, director of corporate strategy and has been acting as interim chief executive since April this year after John Metcalfe left the authority to join Cumbria County Council.
Ms Perera said:
“It is a real privilege to be offered this position.
"I have been with the Isle of Wight Council for many years and very proud and pleased to call the Island my home.
“There will be challenges to face in the coming months and I am committed to helping the council, council staff and the Island face those challenges.”
Wendy's appointment followed a rigorous recruitment process, with 21 applications being received by the council.
A shortlist of seven high-quality candidates underwent a gruelling two-day interview process including presenting to 30 local stakeholder representatives from across the voluntary and community sector, statutory partners and senior council staff.
The appointment and employment committee, which led the formal interviews, was tasked with recommending a candidate to Full Council which met on Wednesday.
Councillor Lora Peacey Wilcox, Council Leader, said:
“I congratulate Wendy on her new role as chief executive.
“Wendy brings with her a wealth of skills, experience and an in-depth knowledge of local government.
“In these extremely challenging times, we are putting faith in Wendy to provide the direction required to inspire the council and its admirable staff forward.”
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