Preston’s new chief executive of the city council has been confirmed.

Adrian Phillips was formally appointed as the new CEO during a full council meeting on Thursday (18 April).

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Mr Phillips, who has worked for the city council for 33 years, had been doing the role on an interim basis since the departure of Lorraine Norris.

He said: “It has been my privilege to serve Preston City Council as the Interim Chief Executive over the last year and I am honoured with this permanent appointment. I look forward to working energetically with colleagues and partners to deliver the council’s ambitious plans for our city.”

“Preston is currently enjoying a period of development and opportunity – the Council and its partners have an ambitious agenda for Preston and its city region and I am proud to play a leading role within this.

“Everyone benefits from a growing city and economy, and continuing the strong track record of development, partnership and quality services for our residents is a key priority for us.”

Mr Phillips was the only candidate to be invited to interview from the shortlist of applicants, which were all internal.

Chair of the cross-party chief officer employment committee councillor Matthew Brown said: “Recommending Adrian for appointment was a unanimous decision by the Committee following a formal application, interview and assessment process.

“I can speak for all Preston City Council councillors when I say that we look forward to continuing to work with Adrian to deliver the council’s ambitions for our city and ensure we continue to enhance the lives of all our communities by ensuring quality services for residents.”

The salary for the chief executive role is listed as between £93,636 to £98,838 and represents a saving compared to previous chief executive salaries and is part of a restructure of the city council’s senior management team which has seen a number of savings made.

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Mr Phillips has been involved in the Avenham and Miller Park and Winckley Square restorations, as well as being the key man behind the Preston Markets development.

Prior to becoming chief executive he was the city’s council’s director of environment.

Read more: A tribute to former Preston Council chief exec Jim Carr

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