A DISTRICT council in Oxfordshire is set to appoint a new chief executive.

Yvonne Rees was selected as the preferred candidate as joint chief executive of Cherwell and South Northamptonshire District Councils earlier this month.

She will be formally appointed this week and will begin work in the summer.

The decision was made following the announcement in December 2016 that Sue Smith would be standing down from the role this month.

Ms Rees is currently the chief executive of Mole Valley District Council and also strategic director for customers and communities at Surrey County Council, a joint post she has held since September 2012.

In taking up her new post she will be leaving these roles. 

She brings with her experience from a local government and commercial career spanning 27 years.

She said: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity for me and one that poses plenty of new challenges which I hope to rise to, bringing a fresh perspective and wealth of new ideas.”

Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “I am delighted that Yvonne has been appointed Joint Chief Executive, and trust that she will be a great asset for both councils.

“With her background and expertise, I am certain that she can help us to continue with our successes.”