Reading chief exec scoops top LGA job
Published 2 Mar 2012 15:50
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READING Borough Council's outgoing chief executive Michael Coughlin has picked up a top job with the Local Government Association (LGA).
Mr Coughlin, whose role has been axed by the Labour administration, has been appointed LGA executive director and will be responsible for work force, pay, productivity, leadership and improvement programmes.
LGA chairman Sir Merrick Cockell said: "We are delighted to announce Michael's appointment as executive director.
"He was the outstanding candidate from an exceptionally strong field, and brings to the LGA more than 30 years experience of improving services, delivering change and demonstrating the highest standards of leadership.
"Michael joins us at a vitally important time for local government. He will be responsible for helping councils up and down the country drive up standards and save millions of pounds of taxpayers' money.
"We know that Michael will be an inspiring and successful colleague who will thrive in this role."
Mr Coughlin is due to leave the Civic Centre at the end of the financial year. His role is being merged with that of the director of resources, as part of moves to save nearly £1m in senior management costs.
He came to Reading from Crawley Borough Council, where he had been chief executive since 2002, having grown up in the West Sussex town and begun his local government career there as a trainee recreation manager at the leisure centre.
Mr Coughlin has also held senior positions at the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead and Elmbridge Borough Council in Surrey.
This article appeared in Local Berkshire 02 Mar 12
Have your say. Post a comment on this article.
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BarbaraC
Unregistered User
Mar 2, 16:24
Report comment -
G O D
Unregistered User
Mar 2, 17:40
Report commentThe public sector always looks after it's own it would appear. Clarkson had it right...
Recommend?
Yes 82
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Reality Check
Unregistered User
Mar 6, 10:21
Report commentThe comments claiming 'cronyism' are misinformed and very easy to make. The LGA is the umbrella body for local authorities, including representing them collectively in negotiations with trade unions. Are you seriously suggesting that a former chief executive of a local authority is not an ideal candidate? I used to work for Michael - it was a pleasure and he is a very capable leader.
Recommend? Yes 22
No 50
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Ceremony
Unregistered User
Mar 6, 16:20
Report comment"Are you seriously suggesting that a former chief executive of a local authority is not an ideal candidate?"
Yes.
Recommend? Yes 49
No 19
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M Hance
Unregistered User
Mar 6, 21:03
Report commentReading's loss is the LGA's gain. Michael is know for his hard work, his integrity, his experience and his amazing interpersonal skills which bring out the best in all those with whom he works.
Recommend? Yes 22
No 30
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