Council managing director sets sights on Tameside

Derbyshire County Council managing director Emma Alexander has been recommended for a senior role a Tameside Council.

Emma first joined Derbyshire County Council in September 2017 as Executive Director for Commissioning Communities and Policy. In January 2021, she became Managing Executive Director before being appointed as permanent Managing Director in December that same year.

Tameside Council announced she has been recommended for the position of Chief Executive at the council, nine months after the last executive resigned. 

Sandra Stewart left her post in October of last year, citing a string of pressures related to the council as a major reason for her exit. 

Tameside Council is currently embroiled in controversy over its 'inadequate' children's services department, as well as poor results from an inspection of services for children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

Several Labour councillors have also been suspended over their involvement in the 'Trigger Me Timbers' WhatsApp group in February, including Cllr. Brenda Warrington, who went on to become a member of Tameside Council's Standards Committee. 

Stewart's position was then temporarily taken over by Harry Catherall, who vowed to retain the role until a permanent replacement was found. 

Ms Alexander's appointment will be subject to a meeting next week (15th July). If appointed, she will take over in overseeing issues currently affecting Tameside Council, and will be leaving her post as Derbyshire County Council's managing director in November. 

Speaking on her plans to deoart for Tameside, she said: “It is with a heavy heart that I leave Derbyshire County Council and all the colleagues that I have had the pleasure of working alongside over my time here.

"I am proud to have been part of the dedicated and talented Derbyshire team who have delivered so much for our communities.

“Should Tameside Council approve my appointment, arrangements will be put in place for my replacement, however, I am committed to continuing to serve the people of Derbyshire in the meantime.”