EXCLUSIVE: Camden and Islington councils to share chief executive

Pictured: Current Camden chief executive Moira Gibb

Wednesday September 8, 2010

EXCLUSIVE By RICHARD OSLEY

Camden and Islington are to share a chief executive for the first time, the New Journal has learned. In a unique agreement, the authorities are set to be bonded by one top official. The strategy is part of attempts to cut down on costs.

Members of the Labour groups running both Camden and Islington have been meeting for two months to discuss the radical idea. It is expected to be implemented when John Foster, the current chief executive of Islington Council, steps down next May. Moira Gibb, Camden's chief executive, could be in line to take over the new overarching job.

Councillor Nasim Ali, Leader of Camden Council said: “As the scale of the cuts to public services becomes clearer it is right that we examine all of the options available to protect the frontline services our residents value. I want us to examine in detail how such a groundbreaking arrangement across Camden and Islington could drive down costs and reduce bureaucracy."

Councillor Catherine West, Leader of Islington Council, said: "Today we have taken the first step towards a closer relationship between our boroughs.  In the face of government cuts, it’s more important than ever that we save money.  By working together, we have a combined purchasing power and more clout when it comes to getting better value for money in service delivery. Camden and Islington are well placed to take this bold step – we have already worked together successfully and I believe that a shared management team will bring a fresh approach.”

More follows and see the New Journal tomorrow for full story and reaction