Lancaster City Council has appointed a new chief executive.
Mark Davies, who has worked for the council since 2002, has been appointed permanently after previously being given an interim role.
The appointment was approved at Wednesday’s full council meeting following a recommendation from the cross-party Chief Executive Recruitment Committee.
Mr Davies will succeed Kieran Keane, who is stepping down on March 31 after three years at the helm.
“I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the council’s chief executive," he said.
"Our area is at a key juncture. The pandemic, the impacts of climate change, economic uncertainty and the many symptoms of inequality mean that the public services our communities rely upon are pressured like never before. At the same time there are a good many opportunities.
“Responding to the challenges requires an understanding of where the real wealth of the area lies. It lies in our people, our communities, our institutions, our businesses, our volunteers. It lies in our city, towns, villages, coast and countryside.
“I look forward to working with our elected members, staff, partners, communities and businesses to co-design and build a future that grows the wealth of our district.”
Mr Davies began his career in local government with Bolton Metropolitan Council as a building cleaner, where he spent eight years, eventually becoming lead for the service.
He moved to Lancaster City Council in 2002 to head the team responsible for services such as cleansing, grounds maintenance, refuse and recycling.
He is currently the city council’s Director for Communities and the Environment, responsible for public realm, housing, leisure and customer services.
“With the post of chief executive comes a series of immense challenges," said Councillor Caroline Jackson, leader of Lancaster City Council.
“We were looking for someone with the passion to serve the community and lead our workforce through some of the toughest times ever seen by local government.
“The recruitment process was rigorous and very thorough, and I am delighted Mark has been appointed as the council’s new chief executive.”
INTERVIEW: Historic Heysham pub to reopen as new management aims to 'bring community together'
Traffic diverted as Lancaster quay closed for rail bridge works
Caravan fire in Morecambe spreads to two other vehicles
Morecambe's two bathing beaches receive Seaside Awards amid calls to improve water quality
Lancaster remains best university in North West England in Complete University Guide
'Music with the Mayor' initiative launched to support North Lancashire’s Citizens Advice
DIARY: Beyond Radio presenter fighting cancer continues his '60 Before 60' challenge
BIG FIGHT COUNTDOWN: Tyson Fury's father John headbutts Usyk supporter ahead of undisputed heavyweight title fight
Decision to refuse Galgate housing scheme planning permission upheld following public inquiry
INTERVIEWS and PHOTOS: The story of Highest Point festival 2024
INTERVIEW: Lancaster prison officer backed by Tyson Fury wins sport contest ahead of Miss England bid
VIDEO and INTERVIEW: Lancaster schoolboy, 10, makes drum 'n' bass DJ debut at Lancaster festival
Highest Point 'Lancaster Rocks' night cancelled due to thunderstorms warning
Quad bike rider dies after road crash in Morecambe
Morecambe guesthouse couple to star on reality TV show 'Four in a Bed'
PHOTOS: Northern Lights dazzle on Highest Point festival day one
Mother and son unveiled as new Lancaster mayoral team
New police and crime commissioner for Lancashire begins role
Morecambe homeless man jailed after admitting criminal damage
Firefighters tackle fire at flat in Morecambe
