A temporary chief executive and director of resources has taken up her role at Lancashire County Council.

The local authority, which needs to save more than £150million in the coming years, pushed through a major restructure of its senior management team.

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It saw former chief executive Jo Turton shown the door along with a number of other senior managers.

The county council’s Conservative groups created a new role – that of chief executive and director of resources – which is the most senior staff role in the organisation.

Angie Ridgwell joins from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy where she was director general for finance and corporate services.

Her salary for the 12-month contract will be around £200,000.

She started her new role on Wednesday (3 January) at County Hall and says ‘Lancashire has so much potential’.

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Ms Ridgwell said: “I am very proud to have joined Lancashire County Council.

“Lancashire has a really strong cultural heritage and was the home of the industrial revolution.

“There are lots of innovations happening right now in the county and I am really enthusiastic about supporting these, in particular ensuring we are providing the best services possible to those most in need and encouraging business development.”

“I bring to the council a wealth of experience in local government and central government.

“In particular I am a finance professional and have a track record in helping local authorities deliver financial savings and living within their means.

“The council, like local authorities across the country, is facing some significant challenges.

“But I am confident that county council members and staff, with their expertise, passion and commitment, will rise to this challenge, ensuring that we as a council are delivering the best possible service to the people of Lancashire at the best possible cost.”

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Ms Ridgwell oversaw the merger of two government departments to form BEIS and previously has worked for Bristol City Council, Thurrock Council, Coventry City Council and Bridgnorth District Council as either chief executive or as a director of finance.

She was appointed by the county council’s Conserative group.

Leader of the county council Geoff Driver said: “Angie is joining us at a crucial time for the county council when we face unprecedented service and financial challenges.

“I am confident that Angie’s skills as a visionary leader and her experience of managing the finances of major organisations will see us through these difficult times. I look forward to working with her.”

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Ms Ridgwell has spoken to the Lancashire Post about her first few days in post.

What do you think of the appointment? What do you think needs to be done at Lancashire County Council? Let us know in the comments below