Rossendale Borough Council names new chief executive

Following a rigorous selection process, a new chief executive of Rossendale Borough Council has been appointed, to replace Neil Shaw, who left the role in December. The appointment of Rob Huntington was approved by Full Council in late December. 

Rob has a strong track record in the public sector and joins from St Helens Borough Council where he held the role of assistant chief executive.  He started his local government career at Lancaster City Council in 1991 and as well as at St Helens, has held director roles at Trafford Council, Your Housing Group and Sheffield City Council.   
Rob said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as Rossendale Borough Council’s next chief executive. I’ve worked in local government throughout my career and I’m passionate about the vital role that district councils play in creating the conditions for communities, places and businesses to thrive.” 
Council leader Alyson Barnes said: “Rob joins us at a particularly challenging period for local government with finances being squeezed like never before.  
“But Rossendale is fighting hard to make sure we can provide the good quality services our residents deserve whilst also bringing about new and exciting projects that things like the Shared Prosperity Fund should allow us to realise. 

“We need a chief executive that will roll his sleeves up and work hard for the people of Rossendale and I’m confident that Rob will do just that.” 
Rob continued: “Rossendale is a valley full of innovation, inspiration, and an ambition to deliver.  It has a bright future and I look forward to working hard with not only new colleagues at the council, but crucially with partners, residents, and Rossendale’s active communities to make the Valley the very best place it can be.” 

Adam Allen, director of communities, will remain as acting chief executive until Rob takes up the role in April.