The Full Council meeting this evening (our live coverage), made official what was generally thought to come to pass – John Metcalfe has won the top role at Isle of Wight council. The council agreed to offer him the role of CEO.
The flow of this evening’s events
A short while after the meeting got underway at 6pm this evening, Cllr Bacon opened by saying he believed the council can have confidence that John Metcalfe has greater qualities in him than many of previous CEOs.
Events quickly moved to Cllr Lumley presenting John to the collected councillors, public and press at the meeting.
Two days of intensive interviews
The meeting heard that after the search and selection process there were two days of intensive interviews and the Employment Committee (made up of cross-party councillors) came to their conclusion that John Metcalfe be offered the £125,000 role.
One of the three shortlisted candidates pulled out for personal reasons two days before the interviews last week.
The vote
Members took part in a named vote, in which 34 voted in favour of John Metcalfe becoming the CEO.
Four members abstained and one voted against.
Quotes from the council
These words have now come in from the council …
Councillor Jonathan Bacon, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said:
“I am very pleased to welcome John Metcalfe to his new role as Chief Executive, and look forward to working with him. This is an interesting and continuingly difficult time for the council, as budgets continue to tighten, however, I am sure that John will provide the direction required to inspire the council and its admirable staff forward.”
John Metcalfe, said:
“I am very proud and honoured to be offered this position. I have been with the Isle of Wight Council for many years and am pleased to call the Island my home. I do not accept this appointment lightly; I know the challenges that I, and the council will face in the coming months and years, but I am dedicated, prepared and motivated to accept that challenge and provide effective leadership to the council’s outstanding staff.”
Update 21:22: Added quotes from council and starting date amended
