New Chief Executive approved by Full Council

July 15, 2022

Full Council has approved the appointment of Rob Polkinghorne as the council’s new Chief Executive (Thursday 14 July 2022).

The recommendation was made by the Appointments and Disciplinary Committee on Wednesday 13 July after a lengthy national recruitment and selection process to find the new Chief Executive, after Alison Griffin announced she would be leaving the council in April 2021.

Rob Polkinghorne is currently Chief Operating Officer at Aberdeen City Council having previously worked for West Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group and North Yorkshire County Council. Rob has also worked in the Fire and Rescue Service.

Rob Polkinghorne, said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the new Chief Executive of Southend-on-Sea City Council, and to receive approval from Full Council.

“Having the opportunity to be the Chief Executive of one of the country’s newest Cities is something I am incredibly excited for. The City has grown significantly over the last few years and I am keen to help drive the ambition to make Southend-on-Sea the number one tourist destination in the UK, whilst also helping to shine the light on the incredible communities that make up the City.”

Cllr Stephen George, leader of the council, said: “I am very pleased that Rob has been confirmed as the new Chief Executive for our council. Rob has shown tremendous passion for our City and I look forward to working closely with him so that we can deliver services our residents can be proud of.”

Andrew Lewis will remain as Chief Executive until Rob Polkinghorne takes up his post. A start date will be agreed in the coming weeks.