Another one gone, following Monitoring Officer and solicitor Terry Osborne
out of the door is Chief Executive Gill Steward. To lose one in a couple of
months is unfortunate, but to lose two…
I have no reason to believe that Gill Steward was any use to man nor borough but
the stories emanating from Watling Street are rather different.
The general gist of it is that working with a domineering Council Leader is just too
difficult and that there are easier ways of earning a crust - even a very thick one coated with honey.
Teresa O’Neill tells a different story of course.
Gill Steward has decided to leave her role as Chief Executive of the
London Borough of Bexley with effect from 31st August 2018.
Gill joined the London Borough of Bexley on 16th May 2016 as Chief
Executive, quickly engaging staff and encouraging a more collaborative and
positive approach to solving the challenges faced by the Council.
During her time in Bexley, Gill has led the co-design of a Corporate Plan
which sets out an ambitious agenda and outcomes for the Council and the
Borough, and developed a growth strategy setting out the Council’s ambition
for 31,000 homes and 17,400 jobs. Gill took on the role of Director of
Regeneration and Growth and led on the inward investment and promotion of
the Borough with developers and builders.
Gill developed strong relationship with key partners, promoting the
development of the integrated Health and Social Care service, Bexley Care,
and plans for a Place and Making Institute bringing together training and
development on place making skills from architecture and design to
landscaping to construction.
Due to a change in her personal circumstances, Gill asked to step down from
her role in Bexley. The Leader of the Council, having just won a
significantly increased majority and with an ambitious manifesto to deliver
agreed that it was in the best interests of all parties that new leadership
arrangements be put in place.
Gill said:
“I’m very sad to be leaving Bexley but it is the right decision for me and
for the new administration. I look forward to seeing the ambitious
strategies and plans to which I have contributed improving the lives and
opportunities of people in Bexley.”
The Leader of the Council, Councillor Teresa O’Neill, OBE, said:
“I thank Gill for the positive contribution and difference she has made to
Bexley during her time as Chief Executive. She leaves Bexley in a
strong place to deliver on our ambitious programme over the next 4 years.”
Paul Moore, Deputy Chief Executive, will act as Interim Chief Executive
until permanent arrangements are put in place.
Councillor Teresa O’Neill OBE
Leader, London Borough of Bexley
Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT