After four years as Chief Executive of Bath and North East Somerset Council, Dr Jo Farrar has decided to accept a senior post as Director General, Local Government and Public Services in the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), the local authority has announced.
This post provides Jo with an opportunity to bring her considerable experience of Local Government in Bridgend and in Bath and North East Somerset to policy making in Whitehall.
Councillor Tim Warren (Conservative, Mendip), Leader of the Council, said, “I am sure I speak for all of members of the Council, officers and partners when I say that we are sad to see Jo leave the Council. During the last four years she has worked with members and officers to build the foundations to meet the challenges facing this Council. However, I recognise that this is a unique opportunity and it can only be a good thing to have such a committed advocate for local government, supporting national policy making.
Jo Farrar, Chief Executive, Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “I have accepted the post in DCLG with mixed emotions. I was not actively seeking another post, but when this came up, it was an opportunity that I felt I could not miss. I began my career in the Civil Service and I believe I will be able to offer valuable insights when I return at this critical time for local public services. I have greatly enjoyed my time in Bath, and set down firm roots in the community. I still intend living within the area.”
The Council has confirmed that Jo will remain in post until September to ensure a seamless transition to new management arrangements. Dr Farrar was recently awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours for her long-standing work to public services.