Reigate and Banstead council appoints new chief

A Surrey council has appointed a new chief executive following the retirement of its previous boss, who held the post for 35 years.

John Jory, 50, currently chief executive of Mid Sussex District Council, is to move to Reigate and Banstead at a date yet to be announced.

He will take up the role vacated by Nigel Clifford earlier this year.

Mr Jory was previously director of development services at Ashford Borough Council in Kent.

His appointment was confirmed at a special meeting of Reigate and Banstead Borough Council on Thursday.

"I am delighted to accept this appointment," said Mr Jory, who is married with three children.

"I have known my predecessor, Nigel Clifford, for some time and admired his leadership and the impressive achievements of Reigate and Banstead Borough Council.

"I look forward to building on that excellent work."