Preston City Council appoints deputy chief executive

Preston City Council has appointed Sarah Threlfall as deputy chief executive following the retirement of Neil Fairhurst.

Sarah is currently the director of transformation at Tameside Council and brings a proven track record of local governance and public sector strategy to the role.

Taking up the role later this summer, she will work with chief executive Adrian Phillips and the corporate management team to lead the council services and staff across the city. Sarah’s post includes the role of director of customer services.

Coun Matthew Brown, leader of Preston City Council, said: “Myself and my fellow councillors on the selection panel were really impressed with Sarah’s wealth of experience and obvious passion for Preston. We’re delighted she will be joining the team and we look forward to working alongside her for the residents and city of Preston.”

Sarah said: "I have strong family links to Preston and the surrounds, and I’m looking forward to working with Adrian and the team to deliver quality services and a continuing and strong community wealth building agenda for the residents and businesses of Preston."