Braintree Council has appointed a new chief executive eight months after the previous incumbent left. 

Nicola Beach left in June to join Essex County Council after four-and-a-half years in the role.

Andy Wright, who has been acting chief executive since her departure, was appointed to the role at a full council meeting this week.  Mr Wright has worked for Braintree Council for five years as director for various areas, including waste, health, community services and economic development.

Mr Wright joined the council having previously worked for a number of district councils around the country specialising in senior leisure, community and economic development roles.

As part of his role he will also take on the authority’s statutory roles of electoral registration and local Government returning officer.

He said: “In my role as chief executive I will be focused on delivering the priorities of the council and achieve the best outcomes on behalf of our residents, on a range of issues such as economic growth, health, housing, police and highways as well as continuing to deliver high quality and cost-effective services.

“In these tough times we need to work hard to support businesses and local communities, provide affordable homes for residents and ensure the district is a safe and clean place to live.”