Agenda and minutes

Apologies were received from Councillors Capstick, Chaudhury, Lane, Palethorpe and Reeve. 

None.

The Leader of the Council circulated a report that set out the recommendations of the Appeals and Appointments Committee seeking the confirmation of the appointment of David Kennedy as the Council’s Chief Executive.  In doing so Councillor Woods commented that this was the unanimous decision of the Committee following an exhausting and exhaustive process that had included psychometric testing, meetings with the Council’s partners, formal interviews and an informal dinner.  He expressed particular thanks to, J Edwards, H Crabtree, D Brewer, M Ozlati and Odgers Consultants for their support of the process.

Councillor Woods commented that David Kennedy was currently the Deputy Chief Executive at Barnsley and had experience of managing housing, planning and environmental services and in particular had had responsibility for the regeneration of Barnsley.  Mr Kennedy had also previously been a Chief Executive of a district council in Nottinghamshire and before that had worked for Watford and York District Councils.

The Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Hadland, commented that he was happy to second the recommendations in the report and concurred that Mr Kennedy’s regeneration experience would be very important to Northampton’s situation. 

Councillor Davies, Leader of the Labour Group, concurred with Councillors Woods and Hadland and commented that Mr Kennedy’s regeneration and performance experience had made him the best candidate for Northampton. 

RESOLVED: (1) That the appointment of David Kennedy as the Council’s Chief Executive, subject to the completion of the appropriate recruitment checks, be confirmed. 

                        (2) That subject to (1) above David Kennedy be appointed as the Council’s Head of Paid Service under Section 4 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and the Council’s Returning Officer and Electoral Registration Officer under Section 35 and Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act 1983.

                        (3) That delegated powers be given to the Interim Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council to finalise the terms of David Kennedy’s contract of employment.

                        (4) That John Edwards, the Council’s Interim Chief Executive, be appointed as Returning Officer until David Kennedy is actually in post.