Leeds City Council names next chief executive
The appointment of Ed Whiting will be formally approved at a meeting in November, before he joins the local authority early next year.
Currently, he is director of cities and local growth in the Department for Business and Trade and the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Part of his role is to lead place-based economic growth partnerships with UK Mayors and other leaders.
Whiting has also held senior civil service roles in HM Treasury and 10 Downing Street, as well as being director of strategy for research charity Wellcome, where he led the development of its new organisational strategy and global partnerships.
He succeeds Tom Riordan, who left the council last month after 14 years in the role.
Whiting grew up in Leeds and now lives in West Yorkshire with his partner, David. They are foster carers to a young baby.
Leader of Leeds City Council, Cllr James Lewis said: “Throughout the extensive recruitment and selection process, Ed’s understanding of Leeds, our collective city ambitions, our values, our challenges and ideas for the future made him the best candidate for the role.
“I am looking forward to working with Ed as we move forward with our positive vision for the future, one which recognises the amazing strengths and opportunities we have and focuses on tackling poverty and inequality, whilst delivering high-quality public services for everyone who lives and works in our city.”
On his recommendation for the post Whiting said: “I love Leeds and am excited to be part of the next chapter of our city’s story.
“Through the recruitment process I’ve enjoyed getting to know team Leeds better, and have been impressed with the dedication across our council team and partners, and the strong shared commitment to do their best for all Leeds residents.
“I’m looking forward to joining the team as we work together on both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our brilliant city.”
