Previously head of finance at the local authority, Mr Wood has been serving in an interim capacity since January. The comprehensive selection process finished yesterday and the appointment was made official.
 
Welcoming the announcement, Cllr Peter Argyle, chair of the infrastructure services committee, said: “I am delighted to welcome Alan to the permanent position of Director. Over the years, Alan has played a key role in ensuring that our finances continued to be managed effectively and efficiently and he will transfer that wealth of skills and knowledge at what remains a very challenging time for local government.”
 
Cllr Anne Stirling, chair of the council’s communities committee, added: “I welcome Alan’s appointment to the important role of Director of Infrastructure which includes Housing and Building Standards. His leadership will strengthen and support the officers to continue to provide the vital services to our tenants and wider communities.”

Jim Savege, chief executive, said: “It is great to see the appointment panel, made up of a group of councillors, endorsing Alan in this role. He brings the financial background and a solid understanding of the council and all of its services into this position, as well as a fresh perspective. The panel and I are confident having him at the helm. The coming months and years will undoubtedly be challenging, but it is a challenge we are all sure he will rise to.”