It will be sad to see Ian go. He's done a huge amount to help build a better Reading during the time he's been with us and I know he'll continue to deliver before he takes up his new post back in his native North East.
From: “Reading Borough Council” <webmaster@reading.gov.uk>
Date: 22 Mar 2016 7:59 a.m.
Subject: Managing Director to Take Up New Post
To: <Racheleden.whitley@gmail.com>
Cc:
Managing Director to Take Up New Post
21/03/2016
Reading Borough Council Press ReleaseReading Borough Council can announce that Managing Director Ian Wardle is to leave his current position to take up a new role in his native North East.
Mr Wardle last week informed senior Councillors of his decision to accept the position of Group Chief Executive of Thirteen Group, the largest group of housing associations in the North East, and in the top 25 nationally. The group own and manage more than 32,000 homes and is one of the largest employers in the region.
Arrangements to find a successor to Mr Wardle will be agreed over the next few weeks, as will interim arrangements to ensure there is a smooth transition.
Ian Wardle joined Reading Borough Council in February 2013 from Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council where he held the position of Director of Regeneration. He previously worked for a regeneration agency also based in region. He is originally from Sunderland and still has family in the area. By taking up the position he is returning to the housing sector where he began his working life.
Reading Borough Council Leader Jo Lovelock today thanked Mr Wardle for his work during his time in Reading.
She said: “Whilst we are obviously sorry to lose Ian, at the same time I would like to congratulate him for securing a position close to his home which he obviously felt he could not turn down.
“Ian joined us in 2013 at a challenging time for all local authorities. In that time he has helped to drive through more than £60 million worth of savings and efficiencies. The scale of Government cuts mean much work remains, but I would like to thank Ian personally for his huge contribution and to wish him and his young family every luck for the future. I am certain he will be as successful in his new role as he has been here.”
Ian Wardle said:
“This has been a hugely difficult decision for me. I had not been looking to leave Reading but I have been offered a role that is for me and my family a once in-a-lifetime opportunity. I will be returning to work in my native North East and to the housing sector, which is where I started my working life and is something I remain passionate about.
“I have been with Reading for three rewarding years, during which time I have worked with some great folk who are meeting the challenge and want to make a difference every day. There are of course further challenges for all Councils ahead, but Reading is well placed to meet those. Over the next few weeks and months it is business as usual and I will be working with colleagues to ensure there is a smooth handover.”
Mr Wardle is expected to start his new role with Thirteen Group in July this year.
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
Reading Borough Council Press Releases can be found online at http://www.reading.gov.uk/mediareleases/
Media Contact: Oscar Mortali
Tel: 0118 937 2301
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