We spoke to Melanie Swan following the SB/CE news and although she was unable to comment directly on the appointment of Steve Beynon as Chief Executive (pending ratification next week by Full Council), but she did express her concern on how the news was released.
I am very concerned that Elected Members were not told of this appointment until more than three and a half hours after all Island schools and staff in Children’s Services.
My immediate concern is about the effect of constant change and uncertainty on our staff and on the Island as a whole. Since the last election, the Isle of Wight Council has had 5 Chief Executives, or Acting Chief Executives, and Children’s Services will now be looking for their fourth Director/Acting Director – all this in just over three years!
It is hard to know how any organisation can function effectively when subjected to such turbulence. This reflects very badly upon the current administration and can only fuel public perception of a leadership characterised by inexperience and incompetence.
